What is the Part of Speech of "That"? A US Guide

In English grammar, "that" presents a multifaceted challenge for learners and educators alike, particularly within the diverse landscape of US English. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines "that" through multiple grammatical functions, illustrating its complexity. Understanding what is the part of speech of that often requires careful examination of its context within a sentence. Grammarly's online tools offer users resources designed to identify the correct usage of "that," depending on whether it functions as a determiner, pronoun, conjunction, or adverb. Many American universities such as Harvard University address this topic in their writing courses, emphasizing the importance of accurate grammatical analysis for effective communication.

Unraveling the Grammar of "That" in US English

The word "that" presents a unique challenge to students and even seasoned writers of US English. Its chameleon-like ability to morph into different parts of speech necessitates a deeper understanding of its grammatical context.

It is not simply a matter of memorizing a definition; instead, one must appreciate the diverse roles "that" plays in constructing meaningful sentences. This introductory section aims to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of these roles.

The Multifaceted Nature of "That"

"That" isn't easily pigeonholed. It functions, at various times, as a pronoun, a determiner, and a conjunction.

This variability, while potentially confusing, is also what makes "that" such a versatile and essential component of the English language. Recognizing these different functions is the first step towards mastering its usage.

Scope: US English Grammar and Usage

It is crucial to specify the scope of this analysis. We will be focusing exclusively on US English grammar and usage conventions.

While general principles of English grammar apply, there can be subtle differences in usage across dialects and national variations. Our exploration will specifically address how "that" operates within the context of standard US English.

The Importance of Correct Identification

Why dedicate so much attention to a single word? The answer lies in the critical role that "that" plays in sentence construction.

Misidentifying the part of speech of "that" can lead to grammatical errors and awkward phrasing.

For instance, failing to recognize "that" as a relative pronoun can result in incomplete or unclear relative clauses. Conversely, mistaking it for a determiner can lead to incorrect noun phrases.

Clarity and Precision in Communication

Ultimately, the correct usage of "that" directly impacts the clarity and precision of your communication. Ambiguity is the enemy of effective writing, and misused "that" can certainly contribute to ambiguity.

Consider the difference between "The book that I borrowed" and "That book I borrowed." While seemingly similar, the omission of "that" in the second sentence alters the grammatical structure and can potentially obscure the intended meaning (depending on context and intonation in spoken English).

By mastering the nuances of "that," you can ensure that your writing is not only grammatically correct but also clear, concise, and impactful.

"That" as a Pronoun: Demonstrative and Relative Roles

The grammatical landscape of "that" becomes even more intricate when we consider its functionality as a pronoun. In this role, "that" sheds light on its ability to represent nouns, either by pointing them out demonstratively or by connecting related clauses. Understanding these two distinct yet related functions is crucial for mastering the use of "that."

"That" as a Demonstrative Pronoun

As a demonstrative pronoun, "that" takes center stage, acting as a substitute for a noun or noun phrase already understood by the speaker and listener. This function allows it to stand alone, either as the subject or object of a sentence.

Its primary purpose is to demonstrate or point out which particular noun is being referred to.

Singular and Plural Usages

"That" as a demonstrative pronoun is typically used to refer to something singular and relatively distant, either physically or conceptually. Classic examples such as "That is mine" or "I want that" showcase this direct substitution.

However, it's important to note the subtle shift when we move to plural forms. While "that" itself remains singular, its plural counterpart is "those." For example, "Those are mine" indicates multiple items.

Understanding this distinction is key to maintaining grammatical accuracy.

"That" as a Relative Pronoun

Beyond its demonstrative capabilities, "that" also serves as a vital relative pronoun. In this capacity, it bridges the gap between a main clause and a relative clause, effectively connecting them.

Introducing Relative Clauses

Relative clauses, also known as adjective clauses, provide additional information about a noun or noun phrase, known as the antecedent. The relative pronoun "that" initiates these clauses, signaling that further details about the antecedent are forthcoming.

For example, in the sentence "The book that I borrowed was interesting," "that I borrowed" is the relative clause, and "book" is the antecedent. "That" acts as the connector, linking the clause to the noun it modifies.

Restrictive vs. Non-Restrictive Relative Clauses

A crucial distinction exists between restrictive and non-restrictive relative clauses. Restrictive clauses are essential to the meaning of the sentence; they identify or define the antecedent. Omission of a restrictive clause would fundamentally alter the sentence's meaning.

For example, "The car that he bought is red" implies that he bought one specific car, and the clause identifies which one.

In contrast, non-restrictive clauses provide additional, non-essential information. They are set off by commas and can be removed without changing the core meaning of the sentence.

For instance, "My house, that I bought last year, needs repairs" simply adds extra detail about the house.

"That" as a Determiner: Specifying Nouns

Moving from pronouns, the role of "that" shifts again as we explore its function as a determiner, also known as a limiting adjective. In this capacity, "that" doesn't replace a noun but rather modifies it, pinpointing a specific item from a broader category. Understanding this demonstrative function is key to appreciating the versatility of "that."

Demonstrative Determiner Function

When "that" acts as a determiner, it functions to specify a particular noun. It operates in the same way as other determiners like "a," "the," "this," "those," etc. However, "that" specifically points out something, often indicating a degree of distance (either physical or conceptual) from the speaker.

Unlike its pronoun role, where it replaces a noun, here, "that" accompanies a noun.

Specifying and Identifying Nouns

The primary purpose of "that" as a determiner is to narrow down the noun it modifies. It helps the listener or reader identify which specific entity is being discussed.

Consider the difference between saying "I need a car" and "I need that car." In the first statement, any car will do. In the second, a specific car, likely visible or already mentioned in the conversation, is being identified.

Examples of "That" as a Determiner

Let's look at some examples to illustrate how "that" specifies and identifies nouns:

• "That car is fast." – Here, "that" specifies a particular car known to both speaker and listener.
• "I don't like that idea." – "That" identifies a specific idea, likely one that has already been discussed.
• "That book on the shelf is mine." – "That" points out a specific book among others on the shelf.

In each case, "that" works with the noun to create a more precise image in the mind of the audience, clarifying the intended reference.

Grammatical Structure

When "that" acts as a determiner, it always precedes the noun it modifies. The structure is straightforward: "That + Noun."

This simple structure is key to understanding its role, distinguishing it from instances where "that" is used as a pronoun or conjunction.

In summary, recognizing "that" as a determiner requires understanding that it is used to specify or identify a noun, making communication more precise and effective.

"That" as a Conjunction: Connecting Clauses

Having examined "that" in its roles as pronoun and determiner, we now turn to its conjunctive function. Here, "that" acts as a bridge, connecting clauses to form more complex and nuanced sentences. Understanding this role is crucial for mastering sophisticated sentence construction.

Subordinating Conjunction: Introducing Noun Clauses

As a subordinating conjunction, "that" introduces subordinate clauses. These clauses cannot stand alone as independent sentences. Instead, they rely on a main clause for their meaning and grammatical completeness.

More specifically, "that" frequently introduces noun clauses. Noun clauses, as their name suggests, function as nouns within the main clause. They can occupy various positions, acting as subjects, objects, or complements.

Noun Clauses as Subjects

A noun clause can function as the subject of a sentence. In this case, the entire "that"-clause acts as the noun performing the action.

Consider this example: “That he failed the test is unfortunate.” Here, the entire clause “that he failed the test” is the subject of the verb “is.”

Notice how the clause expresses a complete idea, but grammatically, it's behaving as a single noun.

Noun Clauses as Objects

Noun clauses can also serve as the direct object of a verb or the object of a preposition.

For instance: “I know that she is coming.” In this sentence, the clause “that she is coming” is the direct object of the verb “know.” It's the thing that “I” know.

Another example: “I am happy about that he is recovering.” Here, the noun clause "that he is recovering" serves as the object of the preposition "about."

Noun Clauses as Complements

A noun clause can function as a subject complement, providing more information about the subject of the sentence.

For example: “The problem is that we are out of time.” In this instance, the clause “that we are out of time” complements the subject “the problem,” essentially defining what the problem is.

Differentiating from Other Conjunctions

It's important to distinguish "that" as a subordinating conjunction from other types of conjunctions. Coordinating conjunctions (e.g., and, but, or) connect elements of equal grammatical rank (words to words, phrases to phrases, clauses to clauses). Subordinating conjunctions, like "that," introduce clauses that are dependent on the main clause.

Unlike coordinating conjunctions, which create compound sentences, "that" contributes to the formation of complex sentences, where one clause is embedded within another.

In summary, when "that" functions as a conjunction, it introduces noun clauses, which then act as essential components within a main clause, enriching the sentence's structure and meaning.

Syntactic Structure: How "That" Shapes Sentences

Having explored "that" as a pronoun, determiner, and conjunction, we now examine its crucial role in shaping the syntactic architecture of sentences. "That," particularly when functioning as a conjunction, is instrumental in constructing complex sentences that express intricate relationships between ideas. Understanding its impact on sentence structure is vital for both effective writing and comprehension.

Building Complex Sentences with "That"

"That" most significantly contributes to complex sentence formation by introducing subordinate clauses. These clauses, dependent on a main clause for their meaning, are woven into the larger sentence structure, adding layers of information and nuance. The ability of "that" to embed clauses within other clauses allows writers to create sophisticated and interconnected ideas, avoiding the choppy effect of numerous simple sentences.

Consider the difference between these two examples:

Simple Sentences: "The report was late. That was a problem." Complex Sentence: "That the report was late was a problem."

The complex sentence, formed using "that," provides a more concise and elegant way of conveying the same information, highlighting the cause-and-effect relationship more effectively.

"That"-Clauses in Different Sentence Types

The function of "that"-clauses can be further understood by analyzing their role within various sentence types. While primarily associated with complex sentences, "that" can subtly influence other sentence structures as well.

Simple Sentences

Although less common, "that" can appear in simple sentences when used as a demonstrative pronoun or determiner. In these instances, it highlights or specifies the noun, adding a layer of meaning.

Example: "That is my book." (demonstrative pronoun) "That building is tall." (demonstrative determiner)

Compound Sentences

While "that" itself doesn't directly create compound sentences (which rely on coordinating conjunctions like "and," "but," or "or"), it can be embedded within one of the independent clauses, adding complexity to the overall structure.

Example: "She wanted to go to the concert, but she knew that she had too much work to do."

Here, "that" introduces the noun clause "that she had too much work to do," which functions as the object of the verb "knew" within the second independent clause.

Complex Sentences

As previously stated, "that" is most commonly associated with complex sentences. It introduces subordinate clauses that can function as subjects, objects, or complements within the main clause.

Example (Subject): "That he will win the race is certain." Example (Object): "Everyone believes that she is innocent." Example (Complement): "The truth is that he lied."

These examples showcase the versatility of "that"-clauses in complex sentence construction, adding depth and sophistication to written communication.

Compound-Complex Sentences

Compound-complex sentences, combining elements of both compound and complex sentences, provide ample opportunity for "that" to shape intricate structures. In these sentences, one or more independent clauses are combined with one or more subordinate clauses introduced by "that" or other subordinating conjunctions.

Example: "He finished his work early, and he knew that he could relax for the rest of the evening because that he had met his deadline was a great relief."

This sentence demonstrates how "that" can be nested within a compound-complex sentence, further enriching the relationship between ideas. It shows that understanding the various roles of 'that' is important to unlocking complex writing styles.

By understanding how "that" contributes to the formation of complex sentences and how "that"-clauses function within different sentence types, writers can wield this versatile word to create clear, nuanced, and sophisticated prose.

Grammar Rules: Navigating "That" in US English

The subtle yet pervasive nature of "that" in English syntax demands a clear understanding of the grammatical rules governing its usage. In US English, these rules dictate when "that" is essential for clarity and when its omission is not only permissible but may even be preferred. Mastering these guidelines allows writers to craft sentences that are both grammatically sound and stylistically effective.

Mandatory vs. Optional Use of "That" in Relative Clauses

The use of "that" in relative clauses is a nuanced area of US English grammar, distinguished by whether its presence is mandatory or optional. A relative clause modifies a noun or pronoun, providing additional information about it. The rules governing "that" within these clauses hinge largely on the function of the relative pronoun within the clause itself.

"That" is generally considered optional when it introduces a restrictive relative clause and functions as the object of the verb within that clause.

A restrictive relative clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence; it identifies which specific noun is being referred to.

In such cases, omitting "that" often results in a more streamlined and natural-sounding sentence. For example, in the sentence, "The book that I borrowed from the library was overdue," the "that" can be omitted without affecting the meaning: "The book I borrowed from the library was overdue."

However, "that" becomes mandatory under certain circumstances, particularly when its omission would lead to ambiguity or grammatical awkwardness.

One key scenario is when "that" introduces a relative clause that modifies the subject of the main clause.

In such cases, omitting "that" can create confusion about the subject of the sentence.

Consider the sentence: "The man that is standing by the door is my brother." Omitting "that" here, "The man is standing by the door is my brother," results in a grammatically incorrect and nonsensical statement.

Guidelines for Omitting "That" in Relative Clauses

While the option to omit "that" in certain relative clauses offers stylistic flexibility, it's crucial to exercise caution and adhere to specific guidelines to maintain clarity.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to omit "that":

Readability and Flow

Prioritize the readability and flow of the sentence. If omitting "that" makes the sentence sound choppy or difficult to understand, it's best to retain it. Longer sentences often benefit from the presence of "that" to guide the reader through the structure.

Potential for Misinterpretation

Assess the potential for misinterpretation. If omitting "that" could lead to confusion about the relationship between clauses or the intended meaning of the sentence, keep it in.

For example, consider the sentence, "The report she submitted was excellent." While grammatically correct, it could be momentarily confusing. Reinserting "that" – "The report that she submitted was excellent" – eliminates potential ambiguity.

Intervening Phrases

Be wary of intervening phrases between the antecedent and the relative clause. These phrases can create a sense of separation that makes omitting "that" less desirable.

For instance, in the sentence, "The policy, despite its many flaws, that the committee approved was controversial," the phrase "despite its many flaws" makes the omission of "that" feel less natural.

Formal vs. Informal Tone

While the omission of "that" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal writing, it tends to be more common and natural in informal contexts. In formal academic or professional writing, err on the side of caution and retain "that" if there's any doubt about clarity.

In conclusion, navigating the grammar rules surrounding "that" requires a keen awareness of its function within the sentence and a careful consideration of clarity and style. By understanding when "that" is mandatory, when it's optional, and the factors that influence its omission, writers can effectively wield this versatile word to craft precise and impactful prose.

Antecedent Agreement: Ensuring Clarity with "That"

The effective use of "that" hinges significantly on maintaining clear antecedent agreement, particularly when "that" functions as a relative pronoun. Agreement ensures that the pronoun accurately refers back to the noun it is modifying, thereby preventing ambiguity and fostering clarity in complex sentences. This section delves into the crucial aspects of antecedent agreement, focusing on number, gender (where applicable), proximity, and their impact on sentence comprehension.

The Significance of Number and Gender Agreement

When "that" acts as a relative pronoun, it must agree in number (singular or plural) with its antecedent. A mismatch in number can lead to grammatical errors and create confusion for the reader.

Consider the following examples:

• Incorrect: "The book that are on the table is mine."
• Correct: "The book that is on the table is mine."

In the incorrect example, "that" refers to "book" (singular), but the verb "are" is plural, creating a number disagreement.

In the corrected example, "that" refers to "book" (singular), and the verb "is" is singular, creating a number agreement.

While English has largely moved away from grammatical gender, the concept still surfaces indirectly, particularly when referring to people or personified entities. Ensuring clarity in these contexts often involves selecting the most appropriate phrasing to avoid unintended implications.

Proximity and Its Role in Avoiding Ambiguity

Proximity, or the closeness of the antecedent to the relative pronoun, is another critical factor in maintaining clarity. In complex sentences, multiple nouns may exist, potentially leading to confusion about which noun "that" refers to.

Placing the antecedent as close as possible to "that" helps minimize ambiguity.

Consider the following sentence:

"The student spoke to the professor that failed the exam."

In this case, it's unclear whether the professor or the student failed the exam.

To clarify, you might rephrase the sentence as:

"The student that failed the exam spoke to the professor."

"The student spoke to the professor that the exam failed."

Navigating Complex Sentences for Enhanced Clarity

Complex sentences, characterized by multiple clauses and embedded phrases, pose a greater challenge in maintaining antecedent agreement.

Careful attention to sentence structure and strategic placement of "that" are essential for avoiding ambiguity in these situations.

Here are some strategies to employ:

• Rephrasing for Clarity: If a sentence becomes too convoluted, consider breaking it down into smaller, more manageable sentences. This simplifies the relationships between elements and reduces the likelihood of misinterpretation.

• Strategic Placement of "That": Position "that" and its corresponding clause as close as possible to the intended antecedent to minimize any potential confusion.

• Using Alternative Pronouns: In some cases, replacing "that" with "which" or "who" (when referring to people) can improve clarity, particularly in nonrestrictive clauses.

By diligently applying these principles of antecedent agreement, writers can ensure that their sentences are not only grammatically correct but also readily understandable, fostering clear and effective communication.

Formal vs. Informal Usage: Adapting "That" to Context

The chameleon-like nature of "that" extends beyond its grammatical roles; its usage also varies significantly depending on the context, specifically the level of formality. Navigating these nuances is crucial for maintaining credibility and effectively communicating with diverse audiences.

The frequency with which "that" is omitted, particularly as a relative pronoun or conjunction, serves as a key indicator of formality. In highly formal settings, such as academic writing or legal documents, the explicit inclusion of "that" is generally favored, enhancing precision and minimizing potential ambiguity. Conversely, informal contexts, like casual conversations or personal correspondence, often see a more relaxed approach, with "that" frequently omitted for brevity and natural flow.

Omitting "That" in Informal Contexts

Informal communication thrives on efficiency and immediacy. Consequently, the omission of "that" is not only acceptable but often preferred. This omission contributes to a more conversational tone, mirroring the spontaneity of spoken language.

For example, consider these scenarios:

• Formal: "The report that I submitted outlines the key findings."
• Informal: "The report I submitted outlines the key findings."

In the informal version, the omission of "that" doesn't compromise clarity and contributes to a smoother, more relaxed reading experience. Similarly, in spoken English, phrases like "I think that..." are often shortened to "I think..." without any loss of meaning.

The Precision of "That" in Formal Writing

Formal writing prioritizes clarity, precision, and objectivity. In such contexts, the inclusion of "that" can play a vital role in avoiding ambiguity and ensuring that the intended meaning is accurately conveyed.

This is particularly relevant when "that" introduces essential clauses or when the sentence structure is complex.

For instance:

• Less Precise: "The policy impacts employees work from home."
• More Precise: "The policy impacts employees that work from home."

Here, the inclusion of "that" clarifies that the policy specifically targets employees who work from home, distinguishing them from those who don't. Omitting "that" in this context could lead to misinterpretations and undermine the clarity expected in formal writing.

Academic Writing and the Role of "That"

Academic writing demands meticulous attention to detail and adherence to established conventions. While stylistic preferences may vary, the general consensus favors the explicit use of "that" in most cases, particularly when introducing noun clauses or relative clauses that are essential to the meaning of the sentence.

• Example of a noun clause: "The researcher demonstrated that the hypothesis was supported by the data."
• Example of a relative clause: "The study examined the factors that influence student performance."

By consistently including "that," academic writers demonstrate a commitment to precision and clarity, enhancing the credibility of their work.

Casual Conversation: Where "That" Takes a Backseat

In stark contrast to formal writing, casual conversation often prioritizes speed and ease of communication. The omission of "that" is commonplace and rarely perceived as a grammatical error. In fact, its inclusion might even sound overly formal or stilted in certain contexts.

Examples include:

• "I heard he's leaving." (Instead of "I heard that he's leaving.")
• "The movie was amazing!" (Instead of "The movie that we saw was amazing!")

However, it's crucial to note that even in informal settings, there are instances where including "that" can enhance clarity, especially in complex sentences or when there's a risk of misinterpretation.

Ultimately, the effective use of "that" requires a keen awareness of the context and audience. By understanding the nuances of formal and informal usage, writers and speakers can adapt their language to achieve optimal clarity, credibility, and engagement.

Regional Variations: Is "That" Usage Different Across the US?

While standardized grammar guides offer clear rules for the use of "that" in American English, the reality of language is that regional dialects and colloquialisms can subtly influence how these rules are applied and perceived.

Exploring potential regional variations in the usage of "that" requires a nuanced approach, acknowledging both the unifying force of standard English and the enduring power of local linguistic traditions.

The Elusive Nature of Regional Grammar

Identifying definitive regional variations in the usage of function words like "that" can be challenging.

Unlike vocabulary or pronunciation, which are often more readily observable and documented, subtle differences in grammatical patterns may be less consciously perceived and more difficult to quantify.

However, this doesn't mean that such variations don't exist; it simply means that careful analysis of linguistic data is required to uncover them.

Potential Areas of Variation

One potential area where regional differences might manifest is in the frequency of "that" omission. While the general rule allows for the omission of "that" in certain contexts, it's conceivable that some regions might exhibit a greater propensity for this omission than others.

For example, in areas where rapid speech and conversational economy are highly valued, the tendency to drop "that" might be more pronounced.

Another possibility is that specific idiomatic expressions involving "that" could be more prevalent in certain regions, reflecting local cultural norms or historical linguistic influences.

The Role of Linguistic Studies and Corpora

To definitively establish the existence and nature of regional variations in "that" usage, rigorous linguistic analysis is essential.

This could involve examining large corpora of written and spoken American English, tagging instances of "that," and statistically analyzing their distribution across different geographical regions.

Additionally, sociolinguistic studies that directly investigate people's attitudes towards and usage of "that" in various regions could provide valuable insights.

Unfortunately, focused and comprehensive research specifically targeting regional variations in the use of "that" remains limited. General linguistic research has yet to explore the nuances of “that” usage across various geographical regions thoroughly.

Should robust data emerge, it might reveal intriguing patterns that shed light on the dynamic interplay between standardized grammar and regional linguistic diversity.

Navigating the Landscape of "That" in the US

In the absence of conclusive evidence of widespread regional variations, it's generally safe to adhere to the established grammar rules for "that" in American English.

However, being aware of the possibility of subtle regional differences can foster a more open-minded and sensitive approach to language use.

Paying attention to the communication styles of people from different regions and being willing to adapt one's own usage accordingly can contribute to more effective and respectful interactions.

Ultimately, mastering the art of "that" involves not only understanding the rules of grammar but also developing an awareness of the diverse and evolving nature of language in the United States.

Tools and Resources: Mastering the Art of "That"

Equipping oneself with the right tools and resources is paramount to effectively navigating the intricacies of "that" in US English. This section offers a curated guide to help you hone your understanding and application of "that," ensuring clarity and precision in your communication.

Leveraging Dictionaries for Definitive Understanding

Dictionaries are foundational resources for any language learner, offering precise definitions and contextual examples. For mastering "that," they serve a crucial role in clarifying its various functions.

Consulting reputable dictionaries, such as Merriam-Webster or the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), allows you to verify the specific part of speech "that" assumes in different sentence structures. Moreover, the example sentences provided alongside definitions illustrate how "that" is used in authentic contexts.

These examples are particularly valuable, as they showcase the nuances of "that" as a pronoun, determiner, or conjunction. This helps you to solidify your grasp of its diverse roles.

Grammar Books and Guides: Comprehensive References

While dictionaries provide focused definitions, grammar books and style guides offer broader, more comprehensive explanations of grammatical concepts.

These resources often dedicate entire sections to the intricacies of relative pronouns, demonstrative adjectives, and subordinating conjunctions.

Grammar books provide detailed explanations of the rules governing "that," including when its omission is acceptable and when it is mandatory for clarity. Style guides, such as The Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook, offer guidance on preferred usage in formal writing.

These resources are invaluable for understanding the subtle distinctions in usage and for ensuring adherence to established conventions.

Navigating the World of Online Grammar Checkers

Online grammar checkers have become increasingly popular as readily accessible tools for improving writing quality. They offer a quick and convenient way to identify potential errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

However, it's important to approach these tools with a degree of critical awareness, especially when dealing with a multifaceted word like "that." While grammar checkers can flag instances where "that" might be missing or misused, they often lack the nuanced understanding of context necessary to make accurate judgments.

For example, a grammar checker might incorrectly suggest adding "that" in a sentence where its omission is perfectly acceptable and even stylistically preferable.

Therefore, it's crucial to view grammar checkers as aids, not replacements, for your own grammatical knowledge and judgment. Always carefully review the suggestions provided by these tools and make informed decisions based on your understanding of the rules and context.

AI's Impact on Grammar Checking Tools

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into grammar checking tools marks a significant advancement, promising more contextually aware and nuanced analyses of language.

These AI-powered systems leverage machine learning algorithms to better understand the subtleties of grammar and usage, offering more accurate and relevant suggestions.

However, even with AI, the potential for error remains. Relying solely on these tools without applying critical thinking can lead to misinterpretations and incorrect edits.

Users should utilize AI-enhanced grammar checkers as a supplement to their own understanding of grammar principles, rather than as a definitive authority.

Leveraging Corpora: Analyzing Real-World Usage

For those seeking a deeper understanding of how "that" is used in authentic contexts, corpora offer invaluable resources. A corpus is a large collection of written or spoken texts that can be searched and analyzed for specific linguistic features.

By searching for instances of "that" in a corpus of US English texts, you can observe how it is used in various genres, styles, and registers. This allows you to identify patterns and trends in usage that might not be apparent from grammar books or dictionaries alone.

For example, you could use a corpus to investigate the frequency of "that" omission in different types of writing, such as academic papers versus news articles. This can provide insights into the stylistic preferences associated with different contexts.

The Corpus of Contemporary American English (COCA) is a particularly valuable resource, offering a vast and diverse collection of texts from various sources. By exploring COCA and other corpora, you can gain a more nuanced and informed understanding of the art of "that".

So, there you have it! "That" can be a busy little word, pulling its weight as a determiner, pronoun, adjective, conjunction, and even an adverb. Hopefully, this guide clears things up for you and helps you confidently identify the part of speech of "that" in your writing and reading. Now go forth and conquer those sentences!