Reading Theme:
Clause: Grammar & Contract Meanings with Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：grammatical clause (clause)
clause
/klɔːz/
n.
A part of a sentence that has its own subject and verb, like a mini-sentence inside a bigger one.
grammatical clause
➕
/ɡrəˈmætɪk.əl klɔːz/
n.
A group of words containing a subject and a verb that forms part of a sentence. It can be independent (a complete sentence) or dependent (needs another clause).
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
Latin 'clausula' (conclusion) from 'claudere' (to close). Indicates a distinct part.
💡 Mnemonic
A 'clause' is like a 'claw' grabbing a specific part of a sentence or contract.
📖 Example
In the sentence ‘I know that you are busy’, the part ‘that you are busy’ is a dependent clause that adds more information.
In the sentence ‘I know that you are busy’, the part ‘that you are busy’ is a dependent clause that adds more information.
🔗 Collocations
main clause – the primary clause in a complex sentence, which can stand alone
subordinate clause – a clause that depends on the main clause for its meaning
relative clause – a clause that modifies a noun, usually introduced by a relative pronoun
🔄 Synonyms
sentence element (n.) – a part of a sentence that has a grammatical function
grammatical unit (n.) – a unit of grammar, such as a clause or phrase
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
From Latin 'clausula' (conclusion), it first referred to closing a legal argument. Later, it meant a distinct part of a sentence or a condition in a contract.
Meaning 2：contract clause (clause)
clause
/klɔːz/
n.
A particular section or condition in a legal document, like a contract or law, that states a specific rule.
contract clause
➕
/ˈkɒntrækt klɔːz/
n.
A specific section or condition in a legal document that stipulates a particular rule, right, or obligation.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Before you sign the rental agreement, please read the clause about the notice period for moving out carefully.
Before signing the rental agreement, carefully read the clause concerning the notice period for moving out.
🔗 Collocations
penalty clause – a clause that specifies penalties for breach of contract
termination clause – a clause that describes how the contract can be ended
arbitration clause – a clause that requires disputes to be resolved through arbitration
🔄 Synonyms
Wordbook
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