Non-defining relative clauses

Article excerpt · target grammar marked

Grand Bassam, which sits between the Ébrié lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, has become a refuge for artists. Nuits Balnéaires, whose name translates as 'coastal nights', moved there in 2019.

Grammar Reference · Non-defining relative clauses

Non-defining: who

Adds extra information about a person. The photographer, who returned from Paris, opened a studio. Always use commas.

Non-defining: which

Adds extra information about a thing. Grand Bassam, which sits by the lagoon, is growing fast. Never use 'that'.

Non-defining: whose

Shows possession. The artist, whose name means 'coastal nights', moved in 2019. Replaces 'his/her/its'.

Common error

Never use 'that' in a non-defining clause. The hotel, that opened in 2023... ✗ → The hotel, which opened... ✓

01Exercise 1 — Form · Write the Correct Form

Non-defining relative clauses

1.La Maison de l'Art, opened last year, was once a colonial customs building.

2.Aïcha Fall, grew up in the French countryside, prefers calm environments.

3.Grand Bassam, UNESCO status dates from 2012, attracts visitors worldwide.

4.The boutique hotel, started a residency in January 2023, has become a creative hub.

5.Elladj Lincy Deloumeaux, was born in Guadeloupe, now lives and works in Grand Bassam.

6.The art collector, observations appear in the article, is based in Abidjan.

02Exercise 2 — Transform

rewrite with the new structure

1.Nuits Balnéaires moved to Grand Bassam in 2019. His name means 'coastal nights'.

2.Grand Bassam is 30 miles from Abidjan. It sits between a lagoon and the ocean.

3.Aïcha Fall returned from Paris in 2023. She plans to open a studio later this year.

4.La Fourchette de Rōze is a boutique hotel. It has hosted over two dozen artists.

03Exercise 3 — About You

in your notebook

Personalise: complete five sentences about yourself using the target grammar.

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