Is in the east a phrase?

"In the east" is a prepositional phrase. It's a group of words that functions as a single unit, acting as an adverb in a sentence.

Here's why:

* Preposition: "In" is a preposition, indicating location.

* Object of the preposition: "the east" is the object of the preposition.

* Function: The phrase "in the east" modifies a verb or adjective, telling us where something is located.

Example:

* The sun rises in the east. (Here, "in the east" modifies the verb "rises" and tells us where the sun rises.)

* The city is known for its beautiful temples in the east. (Here, "in the east" modifies the noun "temples" and tells us where the temples are located.)