Clause: meaning, definitions and examples

A clause is a specific item or provision in a legal document or contract. It usually details a particular stipulation or condition within the larger text. Clauses are often numbered or lettered for easy reference.

• The confidentiality clause in the contract prohibits sharing any trade secrets
• The termination clause clearly outlines the process for ending the agreement

A section is a larger division within a document that groups related clauses or provisions together. Sections usually have headings or numbers to organize content and make it easier to navigate.

• Refer to section 5 for information on employee benefits
• The contract is divided into several sections, each covering a different aspect of the agreement

A paragraph is a distinct section of writing that deals with a particular point or idea, consisting of one or several sentences. Paragraphs are used in both legal and non-legal texts to break content into manageable parts and improve readability.

• The first paragraph of the letter introduces the main subject
• Each paragraph in the essay supports the central argument with evidence

A provision is a specific clause or article in a legal document that states a particular requirement, condition, or arrangement. Provisions are similar to clauses but are often broader in scope and can include multiple stipulations within one section.

• The lease agreement includes a provision allowing the tenant to sublet the property
• There is a provision in the policy that covers natural disasters

Legal documents or formal writing often contain clauses, which are specific sections or provisions within a document.

• The contract has a confidentiality clause that prevents you from sharing company secrets.
• Each clause in the agreement must be reviewed carefully.

A complete set of words that conveys a statement, question, exclamation, or command, and usually contains a subject and a predicate. Sentences are fundamental in both written and spoken communication.

• She wrote a sentence in her diary every day.
• 'I am happy' is a simple sentence.

Used to refer to a small group of words that come together to have a particular meaning, but do not form a complete sentence. Common in both everyday language and literature.

• 'Break a leg' is a common phrase used to wish someone good luck.
• The phrase 'raining cats and dogs' means it's raining heavily.

An expression of an idea or opinion that can be true or false, and is often used in giving information formally or assertively.

• The manager released a statement to clarify the company's position.
• His statement was clear and left no room for misunderstanding.