What is an elliptical clause? Provide examples.

An elliptical clause is a type of clause that is missing some of its essential elements, particularly the verb or subject, but can still be understood based on the context of the sentence. It is called "elliptical" because it appears to have been "omitted" or "left out."

Examples of elliptical clauses:

1. John can play the guitar, and Mary can too.
In this example, the verb "play" is omitted in the second clause, but it is understood that Mary can play the guitar as well.

2. Sarah likes chocolate, and Peter does too.
Here, the subject "like" is omitted in the second clause, but it is implied that Peter also likes chocolate.

3. She sings beautifully, and her sister does as well.
In this sentence, the verb "sing" is omitted in the second clause, but it is clear that her sister also sings beautifully.

4. I enjoy swimming, and my brother does too.
The verb "enjoy" is omitted in the second clause, but it is evident that my brother also enjoys swimming.

5. They went to the park, and we did as well.
Here, the verb "go" is omitted in the second clause, but it is understood that we also went to the park.

In each of these examples, the elliptical clause is missing a verb or subject, but the meaning is still clear based on the context of the sentence.