In English, the use of relative clauses can sometimes be confusing, especially when determining the correct form of the verb. In the sentence “It is a device that (use/you use) to input text into a computer,” the correct answer is “you use.” But why is that necessary? In this article, we will explain why ‘you use’ is correct, and what would happen if we used just ‘use.’ Let’s break it down!
Understanding Relative Clauses
Relative clauses in English are used to provide additional information about a noun. In the sentence above, “that” is the relative pronoun connecting the clause “that (you) use” to the noun “device.” The verb in the relative clause typically follows the subject of the clause. This is why we need the subject “you” before the verb “use.” Without it, the sentence would be grammatically incorrect and lose clarity.
Why ‘You Use’ is Necessary
In English, sentences need a clear subject and verb agreement. The clause “that (you) use” has the relative pronoun “that” as the subject of the clause. Without a subject like “you,” the sentence becomes incomplete. Therefore, it is essential to use “you” before “use” to maintain clarity and grammatical correctness. The phrase “(you) use” correctly conveys that the device is something the person (the user) uses to input text.
What Happens if We Just Use ‘Use’?
If you omit “you” and only write “that use,” the sentence becomes grammatically incorrect. The verb “use” needs a subject, and without one, the sentence would be missing essential information. It would be unclear who is performing the action of using the device. Thus, the sentence would not make sense and would not meet standard English grammar rules.
Conclusion: Why ‘You Use’ is the Correct Choice
The inclusion of the subject “you” in the relative clause “that you use” is crucial for clarity and grammatical accuracy. It ensures the sentence has a subject-verb agreement and makes the meaning clear. Understanding the rules of relative clauses will help you avoid common mistakes like this in the future, improving both your spoken and written English.
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