Notes

Phrases usually start with prepositions. They do not contain finite verbs.

A clause will always have a finite verb in it. A subordinate clause begins with a conjunction or relative pronoun.

State whether the given groups of words are phrases or clauses.

1. as if it was his birthday

2. notwithstanding the opposition to the plan

3. in spite of her best efforts

4. if you are in a hurry

5. as soon as he received the message

6. waiting for hours

7. running as fast as he could

8. what you do with your time

9. since the dawn of civilization

10. on account of his illness

11. due to unforeseeable circumstances

12. the match was cancelled

13. by dint of hard work

14. owing to her family problems

15. as it was a sunny day

16. garlands made of fresh flowers

17. not knowing what to do

18. on top of that

19. at the foot of the hill

20. however hard you may try

Answers

1. clause, 2. phrase, 3. phrase, 4. clause, 5. clause, 6. phrase, 7. clause, 8. clause, 9. phrase, 10. phrase, 11. phrase, 12. clause, 13. phrase, 14. phrase, 15. clause, 16. phrase ( here made is not a finite verb; it is a past participle). 17. clause, 18. phrase, 19. phrase, 20. clause