8.112 Nominal relative clauses

When it is difficult to refer to something by using a noun group, you can sometimes use a special kind of relative clause called a nominal relative clause.

8.113

Nominal relative clauses beginning with 'what' can be used as subjects, objects, or complements. 'What' can mean either 'the thing which' or 'the things which'.

People often use a 'what'-clause in front of 'is' or 'was' to say what kind of thing they are about to mention.

These structures are explained in paragraphs 10.28 to 10.30.

For another use of 'what' in nominal relative clauses see paragraph 8.116.

8.114

Nominal relative clauses beginning with 'where' are usually used after a preposition or after the verb 'be'. 'Where' means 'the place where'.

8.115

Nominal relative clauses beginning with 'whatever', 'whoever', or 'whichever' are used to refer to something or someone that is unknown or indefinite.

'Whatever' is used only to refer to things. 'Whoever' is used to refer to people. 'Whichever' is used to refer to either things or people.

'Whatever', 'whoever', and 'whichever' can be used as pronouns. 'Whichever' is often followed by 'of'.

'Whatever' and 'whichever' can also be used as determiners.

For more information about 'whatever', 'whoever', and 'whichever' see paragraph 8.42.

8.116

'What' can be used with the same meaning as 'whatever', both as a pronoun and a determiner.

The main use of 'what' in nominal relative clauses is explained in paragraph 8.113.