Alternative to relative clauses

In the sentences above, the relative pronoun (who, which, that) can be omitted along with the verb to be and replaced by the present participle (-ing). The simple present verb tense changes to the present participle.

• The verb in the clause expresses a habitual or continuous action, something that happens on a regular basis. Other examples: 

 Kids playing in the streets may get run over. = Kids who play in the streets may get run over.

ESL students attending summer session must register by Friday. = Students who will attend summer session must register by friday

• Hobbies and repeated actions cannot take this construction:

People who play golf are always prepared for inclement weather =The people playing golf today are getting wet from all the rain.

Students who don’t practice their English don’t improve very quickly =Students not practicing their English during class time today will be punished.

The bus which leaves at 6:03 was late today, so I caught the 6:08 one for downtown =The bus leaving at 6:03 was late today

• The verb is in the continuous or progressive tense and can be replaced by the present participle:

I am waiting for the student who is writing his final exam early. = …for the student writing…

Give high marks to the students who are speaking English in class today. = …the students speaking…


Verbs like wish, desire, want, and hope (not like) can be used in this way.
Those students desiring a second grammar course please sign up at my office.

All the students wishing for a better grade are here studying hard.

Helpful hint: When you are not sure, put in the who, which, or that.

Note: These examples are used for defining or definite relative clauses.