Phrases vs. Sentences
* Phrase: A group of words that functions as a single unit within a sentence. It doesn't have a subject and a verb, so it can't stand alone as a complete thought.
* Examples: "on the table," "running quickly," "with a smile"
* Sentence: A group of words that expresses a complete thought. It has a subject and a verb.
* Example: "The cat sat on the table."
Expressing Ideas
Phrases *can* convey ideas, but they do so in a more limited way than sentences.
* Phrases can describe: "running quickly" implies speed and action.
* Phrases can modify: "with a smile" adds detail to a sentence.
Sentences are necessary for complete thoughts: A sentence provides a clear subject (who or what is doing something) and a verb (the action).
So, to answer your question:
* Phrases are not complete thoughts: They can express ideas, but not complete ones.
* Sentences express complete thoughts: They combine a subject, verb, and other elements to create a meaningful idea.
Let me know if you'd like to explore this further!