Noun clause is a dependent clause that functions as a noun in a sentence. These noun clauses can serve as the direct object of the verb.
Noun clause as a direct object implies that it is the direct recipient of the action of the verb. In this structure, transitive verbs are used.
Normally, noun clauses start with subordinating conjunctions such as that, how, what, whatever, when, where, whether, which, who, whoever, whom and why.
Structure:
subject + verb + noun clause
| subject | verb | noun clause |
| He | revealed | that they were in cahoots. |
| Nobody | knows | what he does for a living |
| I | couldn’t tell | whether it was authentic or not. |
Tips:
Object noun clause is not separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| I can tell by your perky attitude, that you’d enjoy the show. | I can tell by your perky attitude that you’d enjoy the show. |
| You must choose, which subject you prefer. | You must choose which subject you prefer. |
In interrogative sentences, do not place the verb before the subject in a noun clause.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| Did they know who was I talking to? | Did they know who I was talking to? |
| Do you like what is he doing? | Do you like what he is doing? |
One reply on “Noun Clause as a Direct Object”
Great!