clause
B2Formal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
A group of words containing a subject and a verb, forming part of a sentence or constituting a complete sentence.
A distinct section within a legal document, contract, or piece of legislation, stipulating a specific condition, provision, or requirement.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In grammar, a clause can be independent (main) or dependent (subordinate). In law, a clause is a distinct article or stipulation. The word is polysemous, with meanings that are conceptually linked (both refer to distinct, component parts of a larger whole).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The word is used identically in both legal and grammatical contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries connotations of precision, structure, and legal/linguistic formality.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [contract] contains a [penalty] clause.A [relative] clause modifies a [noun].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “fine print clause”
- “get-out clause”
- “grandfather clause”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Common in contracts and agreements, e.g., 'The confidentiality clause prevents sharing proprietary information.'
Academic
Frequent in linguistics and legal studies, e.g., 'Analysing the subordinate clause reveals the sentence structure.'
Everyday
Less common; typically in discussions about contracts or basic grammar, e.g., 'What does this clause in my phone contract mean?'
Technical
Precise use in law and grammar, e.g., 'The arbitration clause specifies the dispute resolution mechanism.'
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The sentence has a main clause.
- Read the first clause of the agreement.
- Can you identify the dependent clause in this sentence?
- The contract includes a termination clause.
- The non-disclosure clause is standard in employment contracts.
- Despite the rain, which was heavy, we continued. ('which was heavy' is a relative clause).
- The indemnity clause was heavily negotiated by the solicitors to limit liability.
- The grammatical complexity arises from the nested subordinate clauses within the main clause.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'clause' and 'claws'. A clause holds onto the meaning of a sentence, just like claws hold onto something.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CLAUSE IS A BUILDING BLOCK (for sentences and contracts).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'предложение' (which is 'sentence'). 'Clause' is 'придаточное предложение' or 'статья/пункт'.
- The grammatical term 'clause' is not directly equivalent to 'фраза' (phrase).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'phrase' instead of 'clause' (a phrase lacks a subject-verb combination).
- Confusing 'clause' with 'close' in pronunciation.
Practice
Quiz
In grammar, what is the essential component of a clause?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A phrase is a group of words without a subject-verb combination (e.g., 'under the table'). A clause contains both a subject and a verb (e.g., 'when she arrived').
Yes, an independent (or main) clause can stand alone as a complete sentence. A dependent (subordinate) clause cannot.
An escape clause is a provision in a contract that allows a party to avoid performing their obligations under certain specified conditions.
It is equally fundamental in both fields but in distinct, non-interchangeable ways. The context always makes the intended meaning clear.
Collections
Part of a collection
Law and Regulation
C1 · 46 words · Legal language and regulatory frameworks.
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