Phrases and Clauses

Both are referring to a group of words. However, there are some distinct differences between phrase and clause.

Phrases

Phrase is a group of words that is:

  1. Without verb
  2. Never form a full sentence
  3. Usually formed by only noun/pronouns


Examples

  • My best friend
  • With the blue shirt
  • For 20-days

Clauses

Clause is a group of words that:

  1. Always have nouns/pronouns.
  2. Has a subject and a verb
  3. Can be a dependent clause (sentence fragment)
  4. Can be an independent clause (sentence)
  5. Can be a group of phrases connected through verb


Examples

  • The falcon soared. (independent)
  • While my guitar gently weep (dependent)
  • As I was scared (dependent)


Independent Clause

It's a sentence on its own.

  • I ate the pineapple.
  • The bear roared.
  • That's not our rabbit.


Dependent Clause

It can't be a sentence on its own. Usually, this clause starts with subordinating conjunctions.

  • Because it was delicious,
  • Although it was dark,
  • While the salmon flocked,


Relative Clause

Dependent clause starts with a relative pronouns (who, while, which, whose, where)

  • It's delightful to see that guy that sells the new Willamete cold brew coffee ice-scream.
  • That woman, who always wore a red hat, has the strength of a lion.
  • That one person, who can breach the pillar to its top, be crowned as leader.
  • That candy, which has the red and green stripe, is great!

Checklist for Grammar Review

  1. Is there a verb in the group of words?
    1. NO - it's a phrase
  2. It the clause having a relative pronouns that links the subject to the verbs?
    1. YES - it's a relative clause (also a dependent clause)
  3. Can the clause stands on its own?
    1. YES - independent clause
    2. NO - dependent clause