Introduction
Understanding relative pronouns is essential for the TOEIC test, as they are commonly used in both the Listening and Reading sections. Relative pronouns help connect clauses and provide additional information about a noun, making sentences clearer and more detailed.
Explanation
Relative pronouns include "who," "which," and "that." They are used to introduce relative clauses, which give more information about a noun in the main clause.
Who: Refers to people.
Example: The manager who leads the team is very experienced.Which: Refers to animals and things.
Example: The report, which was submitted yesterday, is very detailed.That: Can refer to people, animals, and things in defining clauses.
Example: The software that you installed is working perfectly.
Common mistakes
Using "who" for things or "which" for people.
Incorrect: The computer who crashed was new.
Correct: The computer which crashed was new.Omitting the relative pronoun when it is necessary.
Incorrect: The person met me was helpful. Correct: The person who met me was helpful.
Tips for the TOEIC test
Pay attention to the noun that the relative pronoun is referring to. This will help you choose the correct pronoun.
In listening tasks, listen for relative clauses to understand the full context of a sentence.
In reading tasks, identify relative clauses to better comprehend complex sentences.
Mini practice
Fill in the blanks with the correct relative pronoun: who, which, or that.
The engineer _____ designed the new bridge is receiving an award.
The document _____ you need is on the desk.
The smartphone _____ I bought last week has a great camera.
Answers
who
that
that