NOUN CLAUSES

NOUN CLAUSES

1. Noun clauses begin with words such as how, that, what, whatever, when, where, whether, which, whichever, who, whoever, whom, whomever, and why

2. A noun clause is a dependent clause that takes the place of any noun in the sentence, whether they are subjects, objects, or subject complements. e.g. She was saddened by what she had read.

3. It has five main functions

   • Noun clauses can function as subjects of sentences. e.g. Why my pet turtle stares at me all day is beyond me
   • Noun clauses can also function as direct objects of the verb in the independent clause. e.g. When my dog goes to doggy day care, I do not know what he does, but he always has the best time.
   • Noun clauses can also act as indirect objects of the verb in the independent clause. e.g. She chose to photograph whomever was willing to pose for her.
   • Other times, noun clauses can act as the object of a preposition in the independent clause. e.g. I like to keep a schedule of when I have upcoming appointments.
   • Lastly, noun clauses can act as subject complements, or nouns that follow linking verbs. e.g. Actors can become whomever they want to be on the stage.