clause
/klɔz/ noun B2- A group of words that contains a subject and a verb; it may be part of a sentence or may constitute the whole sentence, depending on the syntax in each instance. · Near-synonyms: sentential, sentence
- A verb, its necessary grammatical arguments, and any adjuncts affecting them.
- A verb along with its subject and their modifiers. If a clause provides a complete thought on its own, then it is an independent (superordinate) clause; otherwise, it is dependent (subordinate). (Independent clauses can be sentences; they can also be part of a sentence. Dependent clauses can only be part of a sentence.)
- A distinct part of a contract, a will or another legal document.
- A constituent (component) of a statement or query.
Plural clauses
From the library
It had been handed down from father to son; for the singular clause of the only will that had been found, had caused it to be regarded as a genuine relic, preserved in the family with superstitious veneration.
“Is it, then, to Mademoiselle Valentine de Villefort that you leave these 900,000 francs?” demanded the notary, thinking he had only to insert this clause, but waiting first for the assent of Noirtier, which it was necessary should be given before all the witnesses of this singular scene.
She typed a phrase, deleted it entirely, and then slowly reconstructed the clause with a slightly altered, more poetic rhythmic structure.
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