complementizer Definition
a word or phrase that introduces a subordinate clause and relates it to the main clause, such as 'that', 'whether', or 'if'.
Using complementizer: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "complementizer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The complementizer 'that' is used to introduce a subordinate clause, as in 'I think that he is coming.'
Example
The complementizer 'whether' is used to introduce a subordinate clause indicating a choice between two alternatives, as in 'I don't know whether he will come or not.'
Example
The complementizer 'if' is used to introduce a subordinate clause indicating a condition, as in 'If it rains, we will stay inside.'
Summary: complementizer in Brief
A 'complementizer' [ˌkɒmplɪmənˈtaɪzə(r)] is a word or phrase that introduces a subordinate clause and relates it to the main clause. Examples of complementizers include 'that', 'whether', and 'if'.
