Lesson 272 - Parts of the Sentence - Noun Clauses

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A noun clause is a dependent clause that can be used in the same way as a noun or pronoun. It can be a subject, predicate nominative, direct object, appositive, indirect object, or object of the preposition. 

 

Some of the words that introduce noun clauses are that, whether, who, why, whom, what, how, when, whoever, where, and whomever. Notice that some of these words also introduce adjective and adverb clauses. 

 

To check if the dependent clause is a noun clause, substitute the clause with the pronoun it or the proper form of the pronouns he or she.

 

Examples: 

I know who said that. = I know it.

Whoever said it is wrong. = He is wrong.

 

Sometimes a noun clause is used without the introductory word. 

 

Example: 

I know that he is here.

I know he is here.

Instructions: Find the noun clauses in the following sentences and tell how they are used (subject, predicate nominative, direct object, appositive, indirect object, or object of the preposition).

1. I do not know where he is going to stay.

2. How rich I am should concern no one except me.

3. That I should get a haircut is Mother's idea.

4. I wonder where my shoes are.

5. The money goes to whoever wins the race.

--For answers scroll down.

Answers:

1. I do not know where he is going to stay.

- direct object

2. How rich I am should concern no one except me.

- subject

3. That I should get a haircut is Mother's idea.

- subject

4. I wonder where my shoes are.

- direct object

5. The money goes to whoever wins the race.

- object of the preposition

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