The following indicates the answers to Test Yourself: Relative Clauses in Paragraphs

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Sentence 1

One of the options (that or which) we considered was using indomethacin.

Explanation

This relative clause is essential. Go back to sentence 1 and click on "that" to see why.

The following indicates the answers to Test Yourself: Relative Clauses in Paragraphs

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Sentence 2, first clause

Indomethacin (that or which) is one of the most commonly used antiinflammatory drugs was not successful, so we decided to use piroxicam...

Explanation

This relative clause is non-essential. Go back to sentence 2, first clause, and click on "which" to see why.

The following indicates the answers to Test Yourself: Relative Clauses in Paragraphs

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Sentence 2, second clause

...so we decided to use piroxicam (that or which) is known to have fewer side effects.

Explanation

This relative clause is non-essential. Go back to sentence 2, second clause, and click on "which" to see why.

The following indicates the answers to Test Yourself: Relative Clauses in Paragraphs

Trick Question! Neither "that" nor "which" would be correct

Sentence 3: This is not grammatical!

The patient responded well to this treatment, which was a relief to us.

Explanation

Remember to watch for "which" clauses at the end of sentences that do not have a clear reference. This is known as "witch hunting." Was it the treatment that was a relief? It is more likely that the response of the patient to the treatment was a relief.

Because a "which" clause cannot modify an entire sentence but only a noun in sentence, it would be better to revise this sentence. Here is one possible revision:

Revision

The patient responded well to this treatment; her response was a relief to us.

In the revised example, it is now clear what exactly was a relief: it was not the treatment but the patient's response to the treatment. Also see the page "Which Clauses."

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