Definition

A part of a sentence that contains a subject and a verb, or a specific section in a legal document that outlines a particular point or condition.

Example

The contract included a clause that specified the payment terms.

Conversation

I was reading the contract and noticed a tricky clause in it.

Oh really? What did it say?

It mentioned something about hidden fees that could catch us off guard.

Yikes! We should definitely clarify that before signing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clause → It originates from the Latin word 'clausula' (meaning a small closing or a conclusion), which is derived from 'claudere' (meaning to close). A clause refers to a part of a sentence that can express a complete thought, often closing off a particular idea or statement.

Memory Tip

Think of 'closing' ('claudere') a thought or idea in a sentence — that's why a clause is a part of a sentence that expresses a complete thought.

Visually Confused Words