Phrases Defined

Phrases are groupings of two or more words that are missing a subject, a predicate, or both. There are many types of phrases, but some common phrases include noun phrases, verb phrases, and prepositional phrases.

Examples of Phrases

Noun Phrase Definition: A noun phrase consists of a noun and any other words that modify it.

a brand new coffee mug

the sparkly blue dress

an energetic, playful kitten

Verb Phrase Definition: A verb phrase consists of a main verb and any helping verbs attached to it.

was reading

had been practicing

could have studied

Prepositional Phrase Definition: A prepositional phrase consists of a preposition, the object of the preposition, and any other words between them.

on the sandy beach

inside the mailbox

behind a velvet curtain

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