Here's a breakdown of its meaning and use:
Meaning:
* Choice: "Which" implies a selection from a limited number of options.
* Identification: It helps to pinpoint a specific item or person within a larger group.
Use:
* Modifying Nouns and Pronouns: "Which" refers back to a noun or pronoun in the main clause, providing additional information about it.
* Introducing Dependent Clauses: The clause following "which" is dependent on the main clause for meaning.
* Types of Clauses: "Which" can introduce:
* Adjective Clauses: These clauses describe or modify a noun or pronoun.
* Noun Clauses: These clauses function as the subject, object, or complement of a verb.
Examples:
* Adjective Clause: "The book which I bought yesterday is very interesting." (The clause "which I bought yesterday" modifies the noun "book").
* Noun Clause: "I don't know which one to choose." (The clause "which one to choose" functions as the object of the verb "know").
Other Points:
* "Which" vs. "That": While both words can introduce restrictive clauses (essential to understanding the meaning), "which" often introduces non-restrictive clauses (additional, non-essential information), which are set off by commas.
* Formal/Informal Use: "Which" is considered more formal than "that".
Overall, "which" is a versatile pronoun that plays a crucial role in connecting and clarifying information within a sentence.