contentclause

A content clause is a type of subordinate clause that functions as the object of certain verbs. These verbs often express mental states, communication, or perception. Examples of such verbs include think, believe, know, say, tell, hear, see, and feel.

A content clause typically begins with a complementizer, most commonly "that." For instance, in the sentence "She thinks that he is coming," the clause "that he is coming" is the content clause, serving as the direct object of the verb "thinks." Similarly, in "He said that he was tired," "that he was tired" is the content clause, acting as the object of "said."

While "that" is the most frequent complementizer, content clauses can also appear without it, especially in informal speech or when the meaning is clear. For example, "She thinks he is coming" is grammatically correct and common. Other complementizers, like "if" or "whether," can introduce content clauses that function as objects of verbs expressing doubt or inquiry, such as "wonder" or "ask." For example, "I wonder if it will rain."

These clauses are essential for conveying complex ideas and information, allowing speakers and writers to express what is thought, said, perceived, or known about a particular subject. They are a fundamental building block of sentence structure in many languages.