Which one of the following contains an adjective clause?
Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2025
Explanation
An adjective clause is a dependent clause that modifies a noun or pronoun, typically starting with a relative pronoun (e.g., which, that, who).
The sentence, 'The chair which has a broken leg is mine,' contains the adjective clause 'which has a broken leg'.
This clause modifies the noun 'chair', specifying which chair is being discussed.
The clause has its own subject ('which') and verb ('has'), fulfilling the requirements of a clause.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option A: This sentence contains an infinitive phrase ('to win a prize'), which functions as a noun (the object of the verb 'hopes'). It does not contain an adjective clause.
Option B: This sentence uses a prepositional phrase ('with a broken leg') to modify the noun 'chair'. A prepositional phrase lacks a subject and a verb, so it is not a clause.
Option D: This option is in Hindi ('अनुत्तरित प्रश्न' means 'Unanswered Question') and is not a valid English sentence to be analyzed for grammatical structure in this context.
Related Visual
Visual 1: Flowchart: 'Identifying Clauses vs. Phrases'. This can show a decision tree: 1. Does it have a subject and verb? (Yes -> Clause, No -> Phrase). 2. If it's a clause, does it modify a noun? (Yes -> Adjective Clause). 3. If it's a phrase, does it start with a preposition? (Yes -> Prepositional Phrase).
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of Adjective Clauses as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests general English grammar, not a clinical concept.
Clear and precise communication is a critical skill for nurses. Understanding grammar helps in writing accurate patient notes, communicating effectively with the healthcare team, and providing clear instructions to patients and their families.
What if the nurse's note was ambiguous? For example, 'Patient reported pain in the leg which was fractured' (adjective clause, clear) vs. 'Patient reported pain in the leg with a fracture' (prepositional phrase, also clear). An unclear note like 'Patient reported pain and has a fracture in the leg' could be less precise about the direct relationship between the pain and the fracture location.
How to Approach the Question
First, read the question carefully to understand what it's asking for: an 'adjective clause'.
Recall the definition of an adjective clause: a group of words with a subject and a verb that describes a noun.
Analyze each option:
Option A: 'to win a prize' is an infinitive phrase. It doesn't describe a noun.
Option B: 'with a broken leg' describes 'chair', but it's a prepositional phrase (no verb).
Option C: 'which has a broken leg' describes 'chair', has a subject ('which'), and a verb ('has'). This fits the definition.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Identification of Adjective Clauses