This document discusses different types of nominal clauses that can perform the function of a direct or indirect object in complex sentences. It describes relative clauses introduced by relative pronouns like "that", dependent questions using subordinators like "if" and "whether", dependent wh-questions, non-finite clauses using infinitives or gerunds, and indirect object clauses introduced by "whoever". Examples are provided to illustrate each type of nominal object clause.

1. Nominal Clauses
Direct and Indirect Object Clauses

2. Direct Object Clauses
 Nominal subordinate clauses performing the
function of an object in a complex sentence
 Similar patterns to subject clauses
Their structure can be:
i. Relative (that) clauses
ii. Dependent clauses
iii. Dependent questions
iv. Dependent wh-questions
v. Relative clauses
vi. Non-finite clauses

3. Relative (that) clauses
 Subjects – human beings
 Introduce Reported Speech
 Perform the function of a direct object in
complex clauses
E.g. I noticed that he spoke with an
Australian accent.
The subordinator that can be dropped
E.g. She thought we didn’t like him.

4. Dependent questions
 Subordinators if and whether
 Perform the function of a direct object in
complex sentences
E.g. Do you know whether the banks are
open?

5. Dependent wh-questions
 Function as the direct object clauses in
complex sentences
E.g. I can’t imagine what they want with
your address.

6. Relative clauses
 Introduced by the relative pronouns:
what, whatever, who, whoever, which,
whichever, etc.
 Perform the function of an object in
complex sentences.
E.g. She took what she needed.

7. Non-finite clauses
 Perform the function of a direct object.
Can be: Infinitive and Gerundial
E.g. He likes to relax.
He enjoys playing practical jokes.

8. Indirect Object Clauses
 Not very usual in English
 Some cases when it may be realized
 Introduced by the subordinator
whoever
E.g. He gave whoever asked for a
copy of his latest paper.
We will give whoever needs it a second
chance.

9. Have you got any questions?