Discover the different types of phrases that are used to make meaningful sentences. Read on our blog post to learn more!
A Phrase is a combination of two or more words that make sense but do not complete sense. A phrase cannot stand alone as a clause or a sentence because it contains neither a subject nor a verb. Usually, phrases are used as a component of clauses. A phrase by itself cannot convey a complete thought but it strengthens a sentence to become meaningful. There can be more than one phrase in a sentence and phrase. And when a smaller phrase appears inside a larger one it is called a Nesting phrase. For example,
- He told me a sad story.
- I like writing short stories.
- After a few minutes, I’ll meet you in the cafeteria.
Phrases functions as a noun, adjective, verb, preposition, or an adverb in a sentence. According to their functions, phrases are divided into different types of phrases for instance,
Types of phrases
- Noun phrase
- Adverbial phrase
- Adjective phrase
- Verb phrase
- Infinitive phrase
- Prepositional phrase
- Gerund phrase
- Participle phrase
- Absolute phrase
- Appositive phrase
Noun phrase
A group of related words that functions as a noun in a sentence. It contains a noun and other associated words (modifiers and determiners) that give us more information about a noun. And it acts as a subject an object or a complement in a sentence.
For example,
- We enjoy playing cricket.
- He wants to pass the exam.
- The teacher is coming to the classroom.
Adverbial phrase
A group of words that function as an adverb in a sentence to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb. An adverbial phrase gives us more information about the verb or a sentence by answering questions like how, when, why, and where an action takes place.
For example,
- I will do it in a minute. (when)
- He answered in a very rude manner. (how)
- The cat is hiding under the table.
Adjective phrase
A group of words that functions as an adjective in a sentence. It gives us more information about a noun or a pronoun. An adjective phrase consists of adjectives, modifiers, and other words modifying a noun or a pronoun.
For example,
Life is not a bed of roses.
She is an extremely intelligent girl.
A student from my college won the race.
Verb phrase
A verb phrase consists of a model or helping verb plus the main verb. A verb phrase plays the role of a verb in a sentence.
For example,
- Beautiful flowers are blooming.
- She will go to the party.
- The students must reach on time for the class.
Infinitive phrase
An infinitive phrase begins with the infinitive form of the verb (to + first form of a verb) Plus modifiers or other related words. It functions either as a noun or adjective or adverb in a sentence.
For example,
- I like to see a smiling face.
- He wants to explore a new world.
- Pakistan cricket team is trying to win the match.
Prepositional phrase
A prepositional phrase is a group of words that begins with a proposition and includes the object of the preposition ( noun, pronoun, or other modifiers). The prepositional phrase functions either as an adjective or adverb in a sentence.
For example,
- The earth rotates on its axis.
- He lives in a small village.
- She is sleeping on the couch.
Gerund phrase
An Ing form of the verb that functions as a noun in a sentence is called a gerund. A gerund phrase consists of a gerund (verb + Ing), its object, and modifiers. It functions as a noun and is used as a subject or object in a sentence.
For example,
- I love writing comic books.
- He was accused of smuggling.
- They are thinking of emigrating.
Participle phrase
A participle phrase consists of a present participle (verb + ing) or a past participle (2nd form of the verb) and often includes an object or modifier to complete the thought. It functions as an adjective and is separated by commas. For example,
- The table, made of steel, is very pricey.
- The girl, standing next to the bus is my sister.
- I received a mail, mentioning my exam.
Absolute phrase
An absolute phrase is also called a nominative phrase consisting of a noun, a pronoun, a participle, and another related modifier. It refers to the interdependent group of words that has separate subjects. An absolute phrase is similar to a clause but unlike a clause, it hasn’t any finite verb. It gives us more information about the entire sentence and is separated by a comma.
For example,
- He, having an injury in his leg, won the race.
- Their eyes follow, the hook of the ball.
- Weather permitting, the meeting will be held tomorrow.
Appositive phrase
When we combine two sentences with the help of defining clause, it becomes a phrase in apposition. And these phrases are mostly used in the middle or at the end of a sentence.
For example,
- Karachi, the first capital of Pakistan, is the most populated city in Pakistan.
- Ali, my best friend, is very hardworking.
- The magistrate, the agha khan, was a kind man.
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