Non-restrictive

A non-restrictive element, phrase, or clause provides additional, supplementary information that is not essential to the core meaning of a sentence. It can be removed without altering the fundamental understanding of the statement. These elements are typically set off by commas, dashes, or parentheses to indicate that they are an aside or an elaboration rather than a critical component of the primary message. The purpose of a non-restrictive element is often to add detail, provide context, or offer a further description of the subject being discussed. While providing valuable and potentially interesting context, these elements serve an 'extra' function in a given text or sentence.

Non-restrictive meaning with examples

• My dog, a golden retriever with a playful disposition, often chases squirrels in the backyard. The phrase 'a golden retriever with a playful disposition' adds descriptive detail but isn't essential to understanding that 'my dog' chases squirrels. If removed, the sentence's core meaning, that I have a dog that engages in the behaviour of chasing squirrels, remains intact. The phrase simply clarifies what sort of dog I have.
• The city of Paris, a cultural hub and popular tourist destination, experienced a surge in visitors during the summer. The descriptive phrase 'a cultural hub and popular tourist destination' provides additional information but isn't essential to the sentence's core message. Removing it simply means that you understand the sentence stating that Paris experienced a surge in visitors, but is not key information.
• Sarah, who is an accomplished pianist, is performing at the concert tonight. The clause 'who is an accomplished pianist' is non-restrictive, as it doesn't limit the identity of 'Sarah.' Removing it still allows the reader to know that 'Sarah' is performing in the concert, but lacks additional information about her.
• The new software, which is user-friendly and efficient, has significantly improved our productivity. The clause 'which is user-friendly and efficient' adds more information to the main clause, but removing it would not stop someone from knowing that the software has improved productivity. The added information can provide more detail to its context, and provide supporting context.