Overview
A phrase is a group of words that works together as a unit but does not contain both a subject and a verb. Types include noun phrases (the tall building), verb phrases (has been working), prepositional phrases (in the morning), and adjective phrases (very interesting). Phrases are the building blocks of clauses and sentences.
Phrase Types
- Nounthe old red car — determiner + adjective(s) + noun head
- Verbhas been working — auxiliary + main verb
- Adjextremely tired — intensifier + adjective head
- Advvery quickly — intensifier + adverb head
- Prepin the morning — preposition + noun phrase
Noun Phrase Structure
- Pre-modifiers come BEFORE the noun: a tall, elegant woman
- Post-modifiers come AFTER: the woman in the red coat
- Head noun = the most important word in the phrase
- Complex NP: the young student studying in the library
Common Mistakes
- ❌ a very interested student → ✅ a very interesting student
- ❌ the students works → subject is a noun phrase — still plural: work
- ❌ Confusing phrase (no verb) with clause (has a verb)
When to use
Noun Phrases
The tall man with the briefcase walked past.
Verb Phrases
She has been working very hard lately.
Prepositional Phrases
They met at the corner of the street.
Adjective Phrases
The cake was absolutely delicious.