Which statements describe characteristics of a restrictive clause? Select three options. (1) It is set off by commas. (2) It con
tains a subject and a verb. (3) It is not set apart by punctuation. (4) It is essential to the meaning of the sentence. (5) It adds nonessential information to the sentence.
A restrictive clause contains a subject and a verb (2), is not set apart by punctuation (3), and is essential to the meaning of the sentence (4).
Explanation:
A restrictive clause is a clause which functions as a adjective to identify the word which it modifies. Since it is essential to the meaning of the sentence, it is not offset with commas. An example of a restrictive clause is, "The girl who ripped her dress is crying." A restrictive clause is opposite of a non-restrictive clause, which would include non-necessary information within commas. An examle of a non-restrictive clause is, "Sara, the girl who ripped her dress, is crying."