* Clause: This is the most general term. A clause is a group of words containing a subject and a verb. A complete sentence is an independent clause, while a dependent clause is a clause that cannot stand alone.
* Dependent clause: This is a specific type of clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it lacks a subject or verb, or it is introduced by a subordinating conjunction (like "because", "although", or "since").
* Fragment: This is a general term for any group of words that does not have a subject, verb, or complete thought.
* Misplaced modifier: This term describes a phrase or clause that is placed incorrectly in the sentence, making it seem like a complete thought.
Here are some examples:
* Clause: "Because the weather was nice, we went for a walk." ("Because the weather was nice" is a dependent clause.)
* Dependent clause: "While I was eating lunch, the phone rang." ("While I was eating lunch" is a dependent clause.)
* Fragment: "Walking in the park." (This lacks a subject or verb.)
* Misplaced modifier: "I saw a dog walking down the street with a red collar." (It sounds like the street is walking with a red collar, not the dog.)
To figure out which term is best, consider the structure and function of the part of the sentence you are looking at.