Relative adverb vs. non-relative adverb (CGEL)¶
Relative adverb¶
In CGEL, a relative adverb is a special type of adverb that introduces a relative clause and at the same time functions as a constituent within that clause, typically indicating time, place, or reason. Its main role is to connect the relative clause to its antecedent and specify the circumstances of the event described.
A subclass of adverb that heads a relative clause.
Has anaphoric reference to an antecedent (typically an NP).
Simultaneously:
introduces the relative clause, and
expresses a gap-related function within that clause (often adjunct-like).
Common relative adverbs in CGEL:
where (place)
when (time)
why (reason)
Example:
the place where we met
where = relative adverb
where we met = relative clause modifying place
where corresponds to a locative gap inside the clause (we met __)
Key properties:
Occurs only in relative clauses
Has an antecedent
Not replaceable by there / then / for that reason without restructuring
Non-relative adverb¶
An ordinary adverb (or adverbial PP) with no antecedent.
Does not introduce a relative clause.
Functions directly as adjunct, modifier, or supplement.
Examples:
We met there
there = non-relative adverb
No antecedent
No clause-introducing role
She left when it got dark
when = subordinator (not relative)
Introduces a temporal adjunct clause, not a relative modifier of an NP
Core contrast¶
Property |
Relative adverb |
Non-relative adverb |
|---|---|---|
Lexical category |
Adverb |
Adverb |
Introduces a clause |
Yes (relative clause) |
No |
Has antecedent |
Yes |
No |
Clause type |
Relative clause |
Independent or subordinate non-relative clause |
Gap inside clause |
Yes |
No |
CGEL alignment note¶
A relative adverb is not a complementizer.
Complementizers (that, whether, if) are heads of content clauses.
Relative adverbs are heads of relative clauses and encode semantic relations (place, time, reason) tied to an antecedent.