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