What are Objective Clauses?
An objective clause is a dependent clause that acts as the object of a verb or preposition. It typically begins with a conjunction like "that" or "whether" and answers the question "what?" or "if/whether?" about the main verb.
How to Use Them in Description:
1. Clarifying Details: Objective clauses can clarify details about a noun or pronoun, giving the reader a more specific and nuanced understanding of what you're describing.
* Example: "The old house, *which had once been a grand mansion*, now sat dilapidated and forgotten." ("which had once been a grand mansion" is the objective clause, clarifying the house's history).
2. Adding Sensory Information: Objective clauses can be used to add sensory details and create a more immersive experience for the reader.
* Example: "The air was thick with the smell of woodsmoke, *which seemed to cling to everything*, creating a hazy atmosphere." ("which seemed to cling to everything" is the objective clause, adding a sense of smell and atmosphere).
3. Providing Context: Objective clauses can provide important context or background information, helping the reader understand the significance of a description.
* Example: "The worn leather boots, *that he had carried with him on his journey*, were the only thing he had left of his past life." ("that he had carried with him on his journey" is the objective clause, providing context about the boots and their importance).
4. Revealing Feelings or Opinions: Objective clauses can be used to reveal a character's feelings or opinions, adding a subjective layer to an otherwise objective description.
* Example: "The painting, *which he considered a masterpiece*, was actually a poorly executed copy." ("which he considered a masterpiece" is the objective clause, revealing the character's opinion of the painting).
Examples in Different Contexts:
* Setting: "The ancient forest, *which had stood for centuries*, was a place of secrets and whispers."
* Character: "The woman, *whose eyes held a world of stories*, walked with a confidence that commanded attention."
* Object: "The silver locket, *that had belonged to her grandmother*, held a special significance for her."
Remember:
* Use objective clauses strategically to enrich your descriptions and add complexity without overwhelming the reader.
* Make sure your objective clauses are grammatically correct and flow smoothly within the sentence.
By using objective or clauses, you can craft more engaging and evocative descriptions that bring your writing to life.