1. To modify a noun or pronoun: This means it provides more information about the noun or pronoun it's attached to, describing its location, time, manner, purpose, or other characteristics.
* Example: The cat on the couch is sleeping. ("on the couch" modifies "cat" by telling us where the cat is.)
* Example: I saw a bird with blue feathers. ("with blue feathers" modifies "bird" by describing its appearance.)
2. To act as an adjective or adverb: This means it can function as an adjective describing a noun or as an adverb modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb.
* Example: The house across the street is for sale. ("across the street" acts as an adjective describing "house".)
* Example: She walked with confidence. ("with confidence" acts as an adverb modifying "walked".)
So, even though a prepositional phrase contains a preposition and its object, its primary function is to serve as either a modifier or a descriptive element within a sentence.