When “That” Is Optional

In English, “that” often introduces a dependent clause (a part of the sentence that adds extra information), but in many cases, it can be left out without changing the meaning. Here are the main scenarios:

1. After Certain Verbs

• You can usually omit “that” after common verbs like think, say, believe, know, hope, and feel, especially in informal speech.
• With “that”: “She thinks that he will arrive soon.”
• Without “that”: “She thinks he will arrive soon.”

1. After Adjectives and Nouns

• “That” is often used after certain adjectives and nouns, but it can also be dropped in many cases without affecting the sentence meaning.
• With “that”: “It’s possible that they are already here.”
• Without “that”: “It’s possible they are already here.”

1. For Clarity or Emphasis

• You may want to keep “that” if it makes the sentence clearer or emphasizes a specific point. Sometimes omitting “that” can make a sentence harder to understand, especially if there’s a long pause or complex structure in between.
• Example (clearer with “that”): “She said that when you finish, you should join us.”

When Not to Omit “That”

Some sentences rely on “that” for clarity or correctness. Here are examples where “that” is essential:

1. After Certain Nouns with Multiple Meanings

• For example, in phrases like the idea that, the fact that, or the news that, “that” is necessary to introduce the idea or fact being discussed.
• Example: “The idea that time is an illusion fascinates me.”

1. To Avoid Misunderstanding or Ambiguity

• If dropping “that” makes the sentence confusing, keep it in.
• Without “that”: “He told everyone he would call his mother.” (Unclear—did he tell everyone, or did he say he would call?)
• With “that”: “He told everyone that he would call his mother.” (Clear meaning.)

Practice Exercise

Decide whether “that” can be omitted or not in the following sentences:

1. “I believe that he knows the answer.”
2. “She was excited that she got the job.”
3. “It’s strange that they haven’t arrived yet.”
4. “They know that she’s the best choice.”

Answers:

1. Can omit: “I believe he knows the answer.”
2. Cannot omit: “She was excited that she got the job.”
3. Can omit: “It’s strange they haven’t arrived yet.”
4. Can omit: “They know she’s the best choice.”

Pro Tip

When in doubt, try reading the sentence with and without “that.” If it sounds clear without it, feel free to leave it out, especially in casual speech or writing.