that-clause

that-clause (at-setning): a type of nominal subordinate clause introduced by the conjunction that or Ø. A that-clause typically functions as a subject or a direct object (but can also function as an apposition in a noun phrase, as a predicative, or as a complement of an adjective). E.g. It is apparent that no acceptable formula has been found. The mayor said (that) he would run for re-election. The reply was that they would agree to attend.  Are they indifferent to the fact that the dog can easily pick up germs from the preceding patient? I am afraid they will knock over my ink. These nominal that-clauses can be easily distinguished from relative clauses introduced by that by trying to replace that by which or who. (This naturally works only for relative clauses.)