What Is a Noun Clause? | Definition & Examples
What Is a Noun Clause? | Definition & Examples
🟩 What Is a Noun Clause?
A noun clause is a dependent clause that acts as a noun in a sentence. This means it can function as a subject, object, or complement—just like a normal noun.
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🟦 📘 Definition:
A noun clause is a group of words with a subject and verb that works as a noun in a sentence.
Example:
I know that she is honest.
Here, “that she is honest” is a noun clause acting as the object of the verb know.
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🟨 🧩 Functions of a Noun Clause:
1. As a Subject:
What he said made everyone laugh.
2. As an Object:
She believes that the Earth is round.
3. As a Complement:
My hope is that we win the match.
4. As an Object of a Preposition:
You can depend on what he says.
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🟧 ✳️ Common Noun Clause Starters:
That
What
Who
Whom
How
When
Where
Why
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🟩 ✍️ More Examples of Noun Clauses:
1. That she passed the exam surprised everyone.
2. He doesn’t know where his friend went.
3. Whoever wins the contest will get a prize.
4. I can’t believe what you just said.
5. Tell me why you are upset.
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🟦 💡 Tip:
If you can replace a group of words with a single noun or pronoun, and the sentence still makes sense, it’s a noun clause.
Example:
I know that he is right.
→ I know it. ✅
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🟨 📚 FAQ on Noun Clauses:
A noun clause has a subject and verb, while a noun phrase does not.
Example:
Noun phrase: The red car
Noun clause: What she bought
Q2: Can a noun clause start with “if” or “whether”?
Yes!
Example: I don’t know if he will come.
Q3: Why are noun clauses important?
They make sentences richer and help express complex ideas more clearly.
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🟩 🔍 Summary:
Feature Noun Clause
Acts as Noun (subject/object/complement)
Begins with that, what, who, where, when, etc.
Has Subject + Verb
Example I believe that honesty is the best policy.
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✅ Conclusion:
A noun clause is a powerful part of English grammar that helps you make your sentences more detailed and meaningful. Learning to use them correctly will improve both your writing and speaking skills.
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