Complex Sentences: Noun Clauses
Good academic writing mixes sentence types. A complex sentence has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. The first kind of dependent clause is the noun clause — a clause that does the job of a noun. There are three types: that-clauses, wh-word clauses, and if/whether clauses.
That-clauses are introduced by that (often omitted). They frequently follow reporting verbs used for citations: Greene (2016) points out that class size is a key factor. In academic writing they often appear in the passive with "it": It is generally agreed that…, It has been shown that…
Certain verbs and adjectives are followed by a base-form verb in the that-clause (the subjunctive): advise, demand, insist, propose, recommend, suggest, urge; and essential, necessary, important, vital. Example: It is necessary that governments reduce reliance on fossil fuels (not reduces); It is recommended that greater precautions be taken.
Wh-word clauses come from wh-questions but use statement word order (subject + verb, no do/does/did): It is not known where the epicentre was (not where was the epicentre).
If/whether clauses come from yes/no questions. Whether is more formal than if and more common in academic writing: The results determined whether the drug entered trials.
Tip: After verbs and adjectives like recommend, suggest, essential, necessary, use the base form of the verb in the that-clause: It is essential that he be present — not is present.
Common mistake: Keeping question word order in a wh- or if-clause ("It is unclear where does the substance originate"). Use statement order: where the substance originates.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. A clause that functions as a noun is a ___ clause.
2. <em>That, wh-,</em> and <em>if/whether</em> are the three types of ___ clause.
3. "It is recommended that he ___ present."
4. Which is more formal in academic writing, <em>if</em> or <em>whether</em>?
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — A shelter serving as a place of safety or sanctuary.
Synonyms: Haven, Refuge
“The park was an oasis of calm in the middle of the busy city.”
Meaning — So great in size or force as to elicit awe.
Synonyms: Enormous, Colossal
“The prodigious effort of the team resulted in a successful project.”
Meaning — Heavy fire or overwhelming outpouring of something.
Synonyms: Bombardment, Onslaught
“The reporter faced a barrage of questions from the press.”
Meaning — Following in time or order.
Synonyms: Following, Later
“The flood and its subsequent damage affected the entire town.”
Meaning — A sudden violent spontaneous occurrence.
Synonyms: Eruption, Explosion
“The outbreak of a new virus caused widespread panic.”