A noun clause functions as a subject, object, or complement and always keeps statement word order, never question word order, as in what she said surprised everyone or I don’t know what he wants. After be, that introduces a complement clause, as in the problem is that nobody checked the numbers.
Grammar Rule
A noun clause functions as a subject, object, or complement, and always keeps statement word order, never question word order.
Noun Clauses: Rules and Examples
| Position | Introduced by | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Subject | that / wh-word | What she said surprised everyone. |
| Object | wh-word / if-whether | I don’t know what he wants. I’m not sure if she’s coming. |
| Complement (after be) | that | The problem is that nobody checked the numbers. |
Remember: noun clauses use statement word order (subject + verb), never question word order.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using noun clauses correctly in subject, object, or complement position. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
B2-51. Noun Clauses
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a noun clause be the subject of a sentence?
Yes, as in what she said surprised everyone.
What word order do noun clauses use?
Statement word order, never question word order, as in I don’t know what he wants, not I don’t know what does he want.
How do you introduce a noun clause after be?
With that, as in the problem is that nobody checked the numbers.
What introduces a noun clause in object position?
A wh-word or if/whether, as in I’m not sure if she’s coming.