However, it is essential to understand that just because you see one of
these words does not mean that the word is automatically beginning a
noun clause. When identifying the type of a given clause, be careful
that you look at its function, not just the words. A clause beginning with
the same words as a noun clause may have a different function.
Functions of Noun Clauses
The following are various functions of noun clauses with examples to
illustrate them.
A subject of a Sentence or a Verb
• When a noun clause begins a sentence, it functions as the
subject of a sentence or the verb that comes after it.
• Whatever happens to her is none of my business.
• When you choose to start the job will determine your salary.
• Wherever we decide to buy the car must have a discount facility.
• Where we choose to reside must have uninterrupted electricity.
Try to generate more sentences on your own to test whether your
understanding.
An object of a Sentence or Verb
A noun clause performs this function comes after the verb or when it is
the recipient of the action the subject initiates.
I like what you do.
She dislikes where her parents live.
We prefer what we agreed on initially.
The complement of the Subject
A noun clause also serves as the complement of the subject when it
comes after an intensive or copular verb, which we also refer to as
a linking verb; that is, when the complement refers to the subject or
when it is the same as the subject.
-We are what our thinking makes us.
-He is the genius we have always known him to be.