Omitting 'That': Mastering Relative Clause Contractions

Understanding when and how to omit the relative pronoun “that” is crucial for achieving fluency and naturalness in English. It enhances both your writing and speaking skills, allowing you to construct more concise and sophisticated sentences.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to mastering this often-overlooked aspect of English grammar. Whether you’re an intermediate learner aiming to refine your skills or an advanced student seeking to perfect your writing style, this guide offers valuable insights and practical exercises to improve your command of relative clauses and pronoun omission.

Introduction

The ability to omit “that” in certain relative clauses is a hallmark of advanced English proficiency. It demonstrates a nuanced understanding of grammar and allows for more fluid and natural communication.

This article will delve into the rules and nuances of “that” omission, providing you with the knowledge and practice necessary to use it effectively.

Mastering this concept will not only improve your written and spoken English but also enhance your comprehension of complex sentence structures. By understanding the underlying principles, you’ll be able to confidently navigate the intricacies of relative clauses and elevate your overall language skills.

Definition of Omitting ‘That’

Omitting “that” refers to the practice of leaving out the relative pronoun “that” in specific types of relative clauses. A relative clause provides additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause.

The relative pronoun “that” connects the relative clause to the noun it modifies. However, in certain circumstances, its omission is grammatically correct and stylistically preferred.

The omission of “that” is primarily permissible when “that” introduces a defining relative clause (also known as a restrictive relative clause) and functions as the object of the verb in the relative clause. This means the relative clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence, and removing it would significantly alter or obscure the intended meaning. The “that” cannot be omitted if it is the subject of the relative clause or if the relative clause is a non-defining (non-restrictive) clause.

Structural Breakdown

To understand when to omit “that,” it’s essential to analyze the structure of the sentence. Consider the following elements:

Main Clause: The core sentence structure that contains the main subject and verb.
Relative Clause: The clause that provides additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause.
Relative Pronoun (“that”): The word that connects the relative clause to the main clause.
Subject of the Relative Clause: The noun or pronoun performing the action in the relative clause.
Verb of the Relative Clause: The action being performed in the relative clause.
Object of the Relative Clause: The noun or pronoun receiving the action in the relative clause.

The key to omitting “that” lies in its function within the relative clause. If “that” is the object of the verb in the relative clause, it can often be omitted. If it is the subject, it cannot be omitted.

Example: The book that I read was fascinating. (That is the object of the verb “read,” so it can be omitted.)

Example: The book that was on the table is mine. (That is the subject of the verb “was,” so it cannot be omitted.)

Types and Categories

Defining (Restrictive) vs. Non-Defining (Non-Restrictive) Relative Clauses

Understanding the difference between defining and non-defining relative clauses is crucial for mastering “that” omission. Defining relative clauses are essential to the meaning of the sentence.

They identify or define the noun they modify. Non-defining relative clauses, on the other hand, provide additional, non-essential information.

They are set off by commas.

“That” can only be omitted in defining relative clauses.

Subject vs. Object Relative Pronouns

As mentioned earlier, the role of “that” within the relative clause determines whether it can be omitted. When “that” functions as the subject of the relative clause, it cannot be omitted. When it functions as the object, it can be omitted.

Subject Example: The man that is speaking is my professor. (That cannot be omitted because it’s the subject of “is speaking.”)

Object Example: The car that I bought is red. (That can be omitted because it’s the object of “bought.”)

Prepositional Phrases in Relative Clauses

When a relative clause includes a preposition, the rules for omitting “that” become slightly more nuanced. If the preposition precedes “that,” then “that” cannot be omitted.

However, if the preposition is placed at the end of the relative clause, “that” can often be omitted.

Example: The person to that I spoke was very helpful. (That cannot be omitted because it is preceded by “to.”)

Example: The person that I spoke to was very helpful. (That can be omitted because the preposition “to” is at the end of the clause.)

Examples

Examples of Omitting “That” as the Object

The following table provides examples of sentences where “that” functions as the object of the relative clause and can be omitted.

Original Sentence (with “that”)	Sentence with “that” Omitted
The book that I borrowed was very interesting.	The book I borrowed was very interesting.
The movie that we watched was hilarious.	The movie we watched was hilarious.
The song that she sang was beautiful.	The song she sang was beautiful.
The cake that he baked was delicious.	The cake he baked was delicious.
The letter that I received was unexpected.	The letter I received was unexpected.
The email that he sent was informative.	The email he sent was informative.
The gift that she gave was thoughtful.	The gift she gave was thoughtful.
The advice that they offered was helpful.	The advice they offered was helpful.
The question that he asked was challenging.	The question he asked was challenging.
The answer that she provided was correct.	The answer she provided was correct.
The project that we completed was successful.	The project we completed was successful.
The task that they assigned was difficult.	The task they assigned was difficult.
The problem that I solved was complex.	The problem I solved was complex.
The solution that she found was ingenious.	The solution she found was ingenious.
The idea that he suggested was innovative.	The idea he suggested was innovative.
The plan that they developed was effective.	The plan they developed was effective.
The strategy that I implemented was successful.	The strategy I implemented was successful.
The method that she used was efficient.	The method she used was efficient.
The technique that he applied was impressive.	The technique he applied was impressive.
The approach that they adopted was collaborative.	The approach they adopted was collaborative.
The house that I built is sturdy.	The house I built is sturdy.
The car that she drives is fast.	The car she drives is fast.
The meal that they cooked was delicious.	The meal they cooked was delicious.
The clothes that he wore were stylish.	The clothes he wore were stylish.
The shoes that she bought were expensive.	The shoes she bought were expensive.

Examples Where “That” Cannot Be Omitted (Subject)

The following table illustrates instances where “that” functions as the subject of the relative clause and, therefore, cannot be omitted.

Sentence (with “that”)	Explanation
The person that is speaking is the manager.	“That” is the subject of “is speaking.”
The book that is on the table is mine.	“That” is the subject of “is.”
The car that broke down was old.	“That” is the subject of “broke down.”
The computer that crashed needs repair.	“That” is the subject of “crashed.”
The student that studies hard succeeds.	“That” is the subject of “studies.”
The employee that works late is dedicated.	“That” is the subject of “works.”
The company that innovates thrives.	“That” is the subject of “innovates.”
The technology that advances changes the world.	“That” is the subject of “advances.”
The idea that inspires creativity is valuable.	“That” is the subject of “inspires.”
The plan that works is the best one.	“That” is the subject of “works.”
The strategy that wins is carefully planned.	“That” is the subject of “wins.”
The method that saves time is appreciated.	“That” is the subject of “saves.”
The technique that improves performance is sought after.	“That” is the subject of “improves.”
The approach that fosters collaboration is encouraged.	“That” is the subject of “fosters.”
The house that stands on the hill is beautiful.	“That” is the subject of “stands.”
The tree that grows tall provides shade.	“That” is the subject of “grows.”
The river that flows swiftly is powerful.	“That” is the subject of “flows.”
The wind that blows strongly is cold.	“That” is the subject of “blows.”
The rain that falls gently is refreshing.	“That” is the subject of “falls.”
The sun that shines brightly is warm.	“That” is the subject of “shines.”

Examples of Prepositional Phrases and “That” Omission

This table demonstrates how the position of a preposition affects whether “that” can be omitted.

Original Sentence (Preposition Before “That”)	Corrected Sentence (Preposition at End)	Sentence with “that” Omitted (Preposition at End)
The person to that I spoke was helpful.	The person that I spoke to was helpful.	The person I spoke to was helpful.
The company for that I work is successful.	The company that I work for is successful.	The company I work for is successful.
The project on that he worked was innovative.	The project that he worked on was innovative.	The project he worked on was innovative.
The tool with that she fixed the machine was efficient.	The tool that she fixed the machine with was efficient.	The tool she fixed the machine with was efficient.
The problem about that we talked was complex.	The problem that we talked about was complex.	The problem we talked about was complex.
The topic of that they wrote was interesting.	The topic that they wrote about was interesting.	The topic they wrote about was interesting.
The issue regarding that we debated was controversial.	The issue that we debated regarding was controversial.	The issue we debated regarding was controversial.
The solution to that they agreed was effective.	The solution that they agreed to was effective.	The solution they agreed to was effective.
The agreement under that they operated was beneficial.	The agreement that they operated under was beneficial.	The agreement they operated under was beneficial.
The terms in that they negotiated were favorable.	The terms that they negotiated in were favorable.	The terms they negotiated in were favorable.

Usage Rules

Here’s a summary of the rules governing the omission of “that”:

Rule 1: “That” can only be omitted in defining relative clauses.
Rule 2: “That” can only be omitted when it functions as the object of the verb in the relative clause.
Rule 3: “That” cannot be omitted if it is the subject of the relative clause.
Rule 4: When a preposition precedes “that,” “that” cannot be omitted. If the preposition is at the end of the clause, “that” can often be omitted.

Exceptions and Special Cases

While the above rules are generally applicable, there are some exceptions and special cases to consider.

Formal Writing: In highly formal writing, it’s often preferred to retain “that” even when it can be omitted. This adds a layer of formality and clarity.
Ambiguity Avoidance: If omitting “that” would create ambiguity or make the sentence difficult to understand, it’s best to keep “that” in the sentence.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes is omitting “that” when it functions as the subject of the relative clause. Another frequent error is omitting “that” in non-defining relative clauses, which are always set off by commas.

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
The man is speaking is my professor.	The man that is speaking is my professor.	“That” is the subject and cannot be omitted.
My sister, I love very much, is visiting.	My sister, whom I love very much, is visiting.	This is a non-defining clause; “that” is not used, and “whom” cannot be omitted.
The book I think is good is over there.	The book that I think is good is over there.	Without “that,” the sentence is confusing and grammatically incorrect.

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Identify if “That” Can Be Omitted

In the following sentences, indicate whether “that” can be omitted. Write “Yes” if it can be omitted and “No” if it cannot.

Sentence	Can “That” Be Omitted?	Answer
The movie that I saw was excellent.		Yes
The book that is on the shelf is mine.		No
The person that helped me was very kind.		No
The car that she bought is new.		Yes
The song that is playing is my favorite.		No
The food that he cooked was delicious.		Yes
The house that is painted blue is for sale.		No
The idea that I had was innovative.		Yes
The plan that is implemented is effective.		No
The strategy that they used was successful.		Yes

Exercise 2: Rewrite Sentences Omiting “That”

Rewrite the following sentences, omitting “that” where possible.

Original Sentence	Rewritten Sentence (with “that” omitted)
The report that I wrote was well-received.	The report I wrote was well-received.
The presentation that she gave was informative.	The presentation she gave was informative.
The project that we completed was challenging.	The project we completed was challenging.
The email that he sent was urgent.	The email he sent was urgent.
The advice that they offered was invaluable.	The advice they offered was invaluable.
The question that she asked was thought-provoking.	The question she asked was thought-provoking.
The answer that he provided was insightful.	The answer he provided was insightful.
The solution that I found was effective.	The solution I found was effective.
The idea that she suggested was brilliant.	The idea she suggested was brilliant.
The book that I read last week was amazing.	The book I read last week was amazing.

Exercise 3: Correct the Sentences

Correct the following sentences, ensuring “that” is used or omitted correctly.

Incorrect Sentence	Corrected Sentence
The person helped me was very kind.	The person that helped me was very kind.
The car is parked outside is mine.	The car that is parked outside is mine.
The movie I enjoyed was very long.	The movie that I enjoyed was very long.
The lesson learned was invaluable.	The lesson that I learned was invaluable.
The song playing is my favorite.	The song that is playing is my favorite.
The cake baked was delicious.	The cake that he baked was delicious.
The house stands on the hill is beautiful.	The house that stands on the hill is beautiful.
The email I received was unexpected.	The email that I received was unexpected.
The gift she gave was thoughtful.	The gift that she gave was thoughtful.
The task assigned was difficult.	The task that they assigned was difficult.

Advanced Topics

Formal vs. Informal Usage

While omitting “that” is common in everyday conversation and informal writing, it’s often considered less formal. In academic papers, legal documents, or other formal contexts, it’s generally advisable to retain “that” for clarity and precision.

Impact on Sentence Rhythm and Flow

The decision to omit “that” can also be influenced by the desired rhythm and flow of the sentence. Sometimes, including “that” can create a smoother, more balanced sentence, even when it’s grammatically permissible to omit it.

Experiment with both options to see which sounds better in a given context.

“Which” vs. “That”

While this article focuses on omitting “that,” it’s important to note the difference between “that” and “which.” “That” is used in defining relative clauses, while “which” is used in non-defining relative clauses. “Which” can never be omitted.

FAQ

Q: Can I always omit “that” when it’s the object of the relative clause?: A: While it’s often grammatically correct, consider the context and desired level of formality. In highly formal writing, it’s often better to keep “that.” Also, if omitting “that” would create ambiguity, retain it.
Q: What happens if I omit “that” when it should be included?: A: Omitting “that” when it’s the subject of the relative clause, or when it begins a non-defining clause, will result in a grammatically incorrect sentence. This can confuse the reader and detract from your credibility.
Q: Is it ever wrong to include “that”?: A: No, using “that” is rarely “wrong.” However, in some contexts, omitting it can make your writing sound more natural and fluent. It’s a matter of style and preference, as long as the grammar is correct.
Q: How can I practice identifying when to omit “that”?: A: Practice analyzing sentences and identifying the role of “that” within the relative clause. Pay attention to whether the clause is defining or non-defining, and whether “that” is the subject or object. Reading widely and paying attention to how native speakers use “that” can also be very helpful.
Q: Does omitting “that” change the meaning of the sentence?: A: No, omitting “that” does not change the fundamental meaning of the sentence. It simply makes the sentence more concise and, in some cases, more natural-sounding.
Q: Are there regional differences in how “that” is omitted?: A: While the rules for omitting “that” are generally consistent across different regions of English-speaking countries, there may be slight variations in stylistic preferences. Pay attention to the writing and speaking styles of the people around you to get a sense of local norms.
Q: What’s the difference between “that,” “which,” and “who” in relative clauses?: A: “That” can refer to people or things in defining relative clauses. “Which” refers to things in non-defining relative clauses and is preceded by a comma. “Who” refers to people in both defining and non-defining relative clauses (though “whom” is sometimes used as the object in formal writing).
Q: Can I omit other relative pronouns besides “that”?: A: Yes, you can sometimes omit “whom” when it is the object of a verb in a defining relative clause, similar to “that.” However, you cannot omit “who” or “which.” The rules are very similar to those governing “that” omission.

Conclusion

Mastering the omission of “that” is a valuable skill that can significantly improve your English fluency and writing style. By understanding the rules, practicing with examples, and being aware of common mistakes, you can confidently use this technique to create more concise and natural-sounding sentences.

Remember to consider the context, desired level of formality, and potential for ambiguity when deciding whether to omit “that.”

Continue to practice and observe how native speakers use “that” in their writing and speech. With consistent effort, you’ll develop a strong intuition for when to omit “that” and when to retain it, further enhancing your command of English grammar and communication skills.

Omitting ‘That’: Mastering Relative Clause Contractions

Introduction

Definition of Omitting ‘That’

Structural Breakdown

Types and Categories