When a prepositional phrase describes a verb, an adjective, or an adverb, then the prepositional phrase is functioning as an adverb.
Examples of Prepositional Phrases Functioning as Adverbs
Some examples of prepositional phrases functioning as adverb phrases would be the following:
Ross rode his brand new bicycle across the bridge. (“rode” = verb being described; “across” = preposition; “across the bridge” = adverb phrase)
Beatrice memorized the vocabulary words before the quiz. (“memorized” = verb being described; “before” = preposition; “before the quiz” = adverb phrase)
Our class filed out of the school building when the fire alarm rang. (“filed” = verb being described; “out” = preposition; “out of the school building” = adverb phrase)
With extreme caution, Jonathan pulled into the narrow parking space. (“pulled” = verb being described; “with” = preposition; “with extreme caution” = adverb phrase)
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Mechanics and Usage lessons equip students with the necessary skills to communicate clearly to all audiences. With a focus on the application of these concepts in student writing, these lessons tie together both simple constructions of grammar as well as the more complex such that any age or skill level of student will benefit.
