Overview
Use 'that' clauses after verbs of thinking, believing, feeling, and reporting to express ideas and reported speech.
That-clause structure
- after reporting verbsI believe that honesty is the best policy.
- after adjectivesIt is important that everyone attends.
- after nounsThe fact that he apologised surprised everyone.
- as subjectThat she resigned shocked the team.
Common verbs + that
- Thinking/believing: think, believe, feel, suspect, know, realise.
- Saying/reporting: say, confirm, insist, claim, admit, suggest.
- 'That' is often optional in informal speech: I think (that) she's right.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ She said what she would call later. → ✅ She said that she would call later.
- ❌ I believe which honesty is important. → ✅ I believe that honesty is important.
- ❌ That she is right, I believe. → ✅ I believe that she is right.
When to use
Reporting news
Officials confirmed that the talks were successful.
Academic writing
Research suggests that sleep improves memory.
Opinions
I feel that we should reconsider the approach.
Business communication
She confirmed that the meeting is on Thursday.