What is the difference between a clause and a phrase?
The main difference is that clauses have both a subject and a predicate; phrases do
not.
A clause is a complete thought, and a phrase is not. Removing an entire clause from a
sentence may affect understanding.
Phrases are part of clauses. They add meaning to sentences, but the sentence can
exist without a phrase.
She laughs at short clowns. She laughs = clause
at short clowns = phrase that completes it and does not
contain a subject and a verb
What is the difference between a restrictive and nonrestrictive
phrase?
A restrictive clause, or phrase provides crucial clarifying information. It is necessary.
Do not set off with commas
A nonrestrictive clause or phrase adds info. that is not essential to the meaning of the
sentence. It could be removed. Do use commas.
Example: My brother who plays basketball is tall. ( I might have other brothers. This is
specific and important.)
Example: My brother, who is tall, plays basketball. (The info about my brother being
tall does not change that he plays basketball.)