* Clauses are parts of sentences. They are groups of words that contain a subject and a verb. Think of them as building blocks for sentences.
* "Opposite" implies a binary contrast. While clauses can be independent (forming a complete sentence on their own) or dependent (relying on another clause for complete meaning), there isn't a clear opposite in the same way that "hot" is the opposite of "cold."
Instead of an opposite, consider these related concepts:
* Phrase: A group of words that does *not* have a subject and verb.
* Word: The smallest unit of meaning in a sentence.
* Sentence fragment: A group of words that is missing a subject or verb and therefore isn't a complete sentence.
Let me know if you have another question!