Are you often confused about when to correctly use "that" in your sentences? You're not alone. Many English learners and even native speakers find this small word tricky at times. But don’t worry—we’re here to clear up all your doubts and provide you with a straightforward, comprehensive guide to using "that" correctly.
So how do you know when to use "that" in your sentences? In simple terms, "that" is a versatile word used mainly as a relative pronoun to introduce essential information about a noun. It connects clauses smoothly and clarifies meaning, especially in defining or restrictive contexts. Whether it’s in defining clauses or introducing specific details, understanding "that" can elevate your sentence clarity.
Stick around, and I’ll show you everything you need to know about "that"—from its various roles to common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you'll be comfortable using "that" confidently in all your writing and speaking.
What Is "That"? An In-Depth Look
Let's start with a straightforward definition to set the foundation:
Definition of "That"
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| "That" | A relative pronoun and subordinating conjunction used to introduce essential clauses that specify or identify a noun. It can also function as a demonstrative pronoun or adjective in other contexts. |
When to Use "That" in Sentences
"That" plays a crucial role in linking parts of sentences. The primary use cases include:
- Introducing restrictive (defining) relative clauses
- Emphasizing specific information
- Serving as a demonstrative pronoun or adjective in conversation
Below, I’ll detail these uses and guide you on how to use "that" correctly with plenty of examples.
The Many Faces of "That": How to Use It Correctly
1. Using "That" in Restrictive Relative Clauses
Definition:
A restrictive relative clause provides essential information about the noun it describes. Removing this clause would alter the sentence's meaning significantly.
Example:
The book that is on the shelf belongs to my sister.
Here, "that is on the shelf" specifies which book, making it essential.
Key Points:
- Always use "that" without commas before it in restrictive clauses.
- The clause provides defining info; without it, the sentence would lose its specific meaning.
Comparison with "which":
| Aspect | "That" | "Which" |
|---|---|---|
| Use in clauses | Restrictive (no commas) | Non-restrictive (with commas) |
| Example | The car that has a red roof is fast. | The car, which has a red roof, is fast. |
2. Using "That" for Emphasis or Specificity
"That" can also be used to emphasize or specify something particular.
Example:
I want that dress for the party.
In this case, "that" singles out a specific dress among others.
3. "That" as a Demonstrative Pronoun
While less common, "that" can stand alone as a demonstrative pronoun referring to something previously mentioned or understood.
Example:
I don’t like that. (referring to a concept or object)
4. Using "That" as a Conjunction
"That" can introduce noun clauses acting as the object or subject of the sentence.
Example:
She said that she would come.
Here, "that she would come" is the clause explaining what she said.
Proper Placement and Formation of "That"
Now, let's focus on rules for positioning "that" within sentences to maintain grammatical accuracy:
Correct Positioning Rules:
-
Place "that" immediately after the noun it modifies in a restrictive clause.
-
When "that" introduces a clause, it usually comes before the verb or action:
The book that has a blue cover is mine.
-
Avoid ending sentences with "that" (though acceptable in some informal contexts):
Incorrect: I don't know who she was talking to, or who she was talking to that.
Using Multiple "That"s in a Sentence:
When dealing with complex sentences with multiple clauses, ensure:
- Each "that" introduces its own restrictive clause.
- The clauses are logically ordered, and punctuation (commas) is used correctly when necessary.
Strategy Tips for Using "That" Successfully
- Identify the Noun: Find the noun that needs clarification or specification.
- Decide if the clause is restrictive: Drop the clause—does the sentence still make sense? If yes, use "which" and commas. If no, use "that."
- Avoid unnecessary "that"s: Not all sentences require "that." Use it only when it clarifies or restricts meaning.
- Practice varied sentence structures: Experiment with different sentence types to get comfortable with "that."
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Example | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Using "that" when a non-restrictive clause is needed | The car, that is black, belongs to me. | Use "which" and commas: The car, which is black, belongs to me. |
| Omitting "that" in restrictive clauses | The book that is covered in dust is old. | Correct: The book that is covered in dust is old. |
| Ending a sentence with "that" | I don't know who she was talking to, or who she was talking to that. | Restructure: I don’t know who she was talking to. |
Variations and Enhancements
Alternative relative pronouns:
- "Which" (used in non-restrictive clauses with commas)
- "Who/whom" (for people)
- "Where", "When", "Why" (for places, times, reasons)
Example:
- The restaurant where we met was cozy.
- The person who called me is my cousin.
When to switch from "that" to other words:
- Use "which" for non-essential info.
- Use "who" when referring to people.
Using "That" with Multiple Descriptions and List Setup
When describing something with multiple traits, order matters. For example:
She bought a dress that is red, that has lace, and that is perfect for summer.
In complex sentences, maintain logical order and consistency.
Why Rich Vocabulary and Precise Usage Matter
Using "that" correctly isn't just about grammar rules; it enhances clarity, precision, and nuance in your writing. Rich vocabulary allows you to express detailed ideas accurately, making your message more compelling and easily understood.
Practice Exercises: Transforming What You’ve Learned
Fill-in-the-blank:
- The movie ___ I saw last night was fantastic.
- She wants ___ car she saw in the showroom.
- The people ___ live upstairs are noisy.
Error Correction:
- The book, that I bought yesterday, is missing.
- The house, that has a large garden, is for sale.
Identification:
- Identify whether "that" is used correctly or incorrectly:
- The cake that she baked was delicious.
- My brother, that is coming to dinner, is a chef.
Sentence Construction:
- Create sentences using "that" to introduce a restrictive clause, an emphasis, and a noun clause.
Final Thoughts
Understanding when and how to use "that" correctly in English is essential for clear, precise communication. Remember, "that" often introduces defining information that restricts or specifies. Keep practicing, pay attention to sentence structure, and you'll master its usage in no time.
By embracing the nuances of "that," you’ll greatly improve both your writing clarity and speaking fluency. So next time you craft a sentence, ask yourself: Should I use "that" to define, emphasize, or clarify? The right choice can make a significant difference.
Ready to elevate your English? Embrace "that" with confidence and watch your communication become clearer and more effective!
