NOUN CLAUSE Another type of Subordinate Clause

 Functions as a noun  It can do anything a noun can do  It can act as a subject, a direct object, a predicate nominative, an indirect object, or the object of a preposition  It can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence

Certain words usually introduce a noun clause  How  If  That  What  Whatever  When  Where  Whether  Which  Whichever  Who  Whoever  Whom  Whose  Why

 Whoever was stealing the precious stones had many accomplices. [subject]

 Detectives believed they would never know what happened to the diamonds [direct object]

 The anonymous midnight call was what tipped off the police. [Predicate nominative]

 The lawyer instructed Betty to testify truthfully about whether she knew the suspect. [object of a preposition]

 As you write, you don’t have to identify how noun clauses function in sentences. Think of them as just another tool to express ideas and vary sentence structure.

 Sometimes, the introductory word of a noun clause is omitted because it is understood. The sentences below make sense if you read them with or without the bracketed word.  The prosecutor hopes [that] the jury will convict the suspect.  The defense lawyer knows [that] he has a strong case.

Editing Tip  Only omit the introductory word in a noun clause if it doesn’t cause misunderstanding.  Unclear –Tom didn’t believe Jerry would leave town.  Clear – Tom didn’t believe that Jerry would leave town.  Unclear- Mom didn’t say you called.  Clear- Mom didn’t say that you called.