Mainlausel

Mainlausel is a term that appears in some German-language texts as a calque or informal label for the concept of a main clause, typically in linguistics or legal drafting. It is not a standardized term in most reference works, and usage varies by author and context.

In linguistics, the main clause (often called an independent clause in English) is the central unit of a sentence that can stand on its own as a complete proposition. It typically contains a finite verb and expresses the primary assertion. Subordinate clauses, also called dependent clauses, rely on the main clause to complete meaning and cannot stand alone. The distinction between main clauses and subordinate clauses is fundamental to sentence structure and syntax.

In contract law or statutory drafting, the main clause refers to the central provision that states the principal rights, obligations, or terms of an agreement or statute. Supplementary provisions—such as conditions, qualifications, or definitions—are often organized as subordinate clauses or separate clauses that modify or limit the main clause.

Usage notes: In German, the conventional linguistic term is Hauptsatz; “Klausel” is used broadly for any clause. The direct borrowing “Mainlausel” is uncommon and more likely to be found in bilingual texts, glossaries, or informal writing. For clarity, German-language writers typically use Hauptsatz for the linguistic concept and refer to the central contractual provision with terms like zentrale Klausel or Hauptklausel, depending on context.

See also: independent clause, dependent clause, Hauptsatz, Nebensatz, contract clause.