Reduced Relative Clauses: Streamlining Complex Sentences

Clear, efficient writing often relies on concise sentence structures. One powerful tool for advanced English learners is the reduced relative clause. In this post, we'll break down what reduced relative clauses are, how to form them, and how they can improve your writing for flow and clarity.

What Is a Reduced Relative Clause?

A relative clause (also known as an adjective clause) adds extra information about a noun, usually beginning with words like who, that, or which:

• The book that is lying on the table is mine.

A reduced relative clause shortens this structure by removing the relative pronoun and (sometimes) the verb "be" or by converting the verb to a participle form:

• The book lying on the table is mine.

Why Use Reduced Relative Clauses?

• Conciseness: Fewer words, clearer sentences.
• Readability: Avoids repetitive pronouns and verbs.
• Professional Style: Common in academic and business writing.

How to Form Reduced Relative Clauses

The reduction process depends on whether the clause is active or passive. See the tables below for guidance.

Active Voice Reduction

Full Relative Clause	Reduced Clause
Students who are studying for exams	Students studying for exams
The man who lives next door	The man living next door

Rule: Remove the relative pronoun and convert the verb to its present participle (-ing form).

Passive Voice Reduction

Full Relative Clause	Reduced Clause
The books that were published last year	The books published last year
Meals that are served here	Meals served here

Rule: Omit the relative pronoun and the form of "be", and use the past participle of the verb.

Key Points to Remember

• The noun being described must be the subject of the relative clause. If not, do not reduce.
• Reduction is possible only if the relative clause is defining (essential), not non-defining (additional information).
• Time clauses and clauses with modal verbs (can, must, might) are not reducible.

Common Pitfalls for Learners

• Misplaced modifiers: Ensure the reduced clause directly follows the noun it describes.
• Incorrect verb forms: Use the participle that matches the voice (active: -ing, passive: past participle).
• Over-reduction: Avoid reducing when the sentence becomes ambiguous or confusing.

Summary: Mastering Reduced Relative Clauses

Reduced relative clauses are a powerful way to simplify complex sentences in English. They help you write with conciseness and professionalism—qualities appreciated in exams, academia, and business. Always check for grammatical accuracy and clarity when reducing clauses in your writing.