Clause: meaning, definitions and examples

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clause

[klɔːz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

legal

A clause is a particular section of a legal document or agreement that deals with a specific aspect of the overall document.

Synonyms

paragraph, provision, section.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clause	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
section	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
paragraph	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
provision	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

Examples of usage

The confidentiality clause in the contract prohibits the sharing of sensitive information.
The arbitration clause outlines the process for resolving disputes between the parties.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

grammar

In grammar, a clause is a group of words containing a subject and a predicate that can stand alone as a sentence or be part of a larger sentence.

Synonyms

phrase, sentence, statement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clause	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.
sentence	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.
phrase	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.
statement	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.

Examples of usage

The independent clause expresses a complete thought and can function as a sentence.
The dependent clause relies on the independent clause for its complete meaning.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'clause' comes from the Latin word 'clausula', which means 'a closing' or 'a conclusion'.
In Medieval Latin, it referred specifically to 'a term or phrase', showing its roots in legal and formal contexts.

Grammar

There are two main types of clauses: independent clauses, which can stand alone as complete sentences, and dependent clauses, which cannot.
Clauses are essential for creating complex sentences, allowing for the inclusion of additional information.
Every sentence must have at least one clause, and longer sentences can be made by combining multiple clauses.

Legal Language

In legal documents, a clause often specifies particular rules or conditions, such as ‘force majeure’ clauses that deal with unforeseen events.
Clauses in contracts can determine the rights and obligations of parties involved, making them crucial for legal clarity.

Linguistics

Clauses are studied in syntax, the branch of linguistics concerned with the structure of sentences.
Different languages have unique clause structures, which can affect how meanings are conveyed.
Understanding clauses is key to mastering complex languages, as they help in increasing the fluency of speech and writing.

Cultural References

In famous literature, clauses often reveal character motivations and plot developments, enriching the storytelling.
Movies and shows sometimes have notable dialogue with clever use of clauses that indicate humor or conflict, emphasizing their importance in communication.

Translations

Translations of the word "clause" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cláusula

🇮🇳 धारा

🇩🇪 Klausel

🇮🇩 klausa

🇺🇦 пункт

🇵🇱 klauzula

🇯🇵 条項 (じょうこう)

🇫🇷 clause

🇪🇸 cláusula

🇹🇷 madde

🇰🇷 조항 (조항)

🇸🇦 بند

🇨🇿 ustanovení

🇸🇰 ustanovenie

🇨🇳 条款 (tiáo kuǎn)

🇸🇮 klavzula

🇮🇸 ákvæði

🇰🇿 тармақ

🇬🇪 პუნქტი

🇦🇿 maddə

🇲🇽 cláusula

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,898, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1895 machinery
1896 extra
1897 mechanical
1898 clause
1899 superior
1900 creation
1901 thoughts
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