Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/klɔːz/

Definitions

• (noun) A grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a predicate and forms part of a sentence.
• (noun) A distinct section or provision in a legal document, such as a contract or law.
• (noun) A part of a sentence that can stand alone as a sentence or is joined with other parts to form a complete thought.

Usage Examples

• "In the sentence 'I stayed at home because it was raining,' the phrase 'because it was raining' is a subordinate clause."
• "The contract includes a clause that specifies payment terms."

Etymology

From Latin "clausula," meaning "a close or conclusion," from "claudere," meaning "to close." The term evolved in Middle English to refer to a grammatical structure and legal provisions.

Synonyms

• Section
• Provision
• Phrase
• Sentence component

Antonyms

• Whole sentence
• Independent clause

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "clause" may vary regionally, with some accents placing more emphasis on the "clau" sound, while others may stress the "se" sound.

Historical Usage

The word "clause" first appeared in English in the 14th century and was used in both legal and grammatical contexts. In legal contexts, "clause" referred to a specific provision in contracts and documents. Over time, it also came to refer to parts of a sentence in grammar, particularly in formal writing.

Cultural Nuances

In legal documents, "clauses" often carry significant weight in determining the rights and responsibilities of the involved parties. The interpretation of a clause can vary widely depending on the context and the legal traditions of a country. In grammatical usage, understanding clauses is fundamental to mastering complex sentence structures in languages like English, French, and Spanish.

More Information

The concept of a clause is essential for both understanding grammar and interpreting legal texts. In grammar, clauses serve as the building blocks of sentences, forming the foundation for more complex sentence structures. In legal documents, a clause represents a discrete section that outlines specific terms, often with precise legal implications. Whether studying sentence construction or analyzing contracts, understanding clauses is critical to comprehension and communication.