1. Participial Phrases:
* Definition: A participial phrase consists of a participle (a verb form ending in -ing or -ed) and its modifiers.
* Function: Participial phrases act as adjectives, modifying nouns or pronouns.
* Examples:
* Running quickly, the dog chased its tail. (modifies "dog")
* The broken window needed repair. (modifies "window")
2. Gerund Phrases:
* Definition: A gerund phrase consists of a gerund (a verb form ending in -ing used as a noun) and its modifiers.
* Function: Gerund phrases act as nouns, serving as subjects, objects, or complements.
* Examples:
* Swimming in the ocean is my favorite summer activity. (subject)
* I enjoy baking delicious cakes. (object)
* Her passion is writing poetry. (complement)
3. Infinitive Phrases:
* Definition: An infinitive phrase consists of the infinitive form of a verb (to + verb) and its modifiers.
* Function: Infinitive phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, adverbs, or complements.
* Examples:
* To learn a new language is a challenge. (noun)
* I have a desire to travel the world. (adjective)
* She went to the store to buy groceries. (adverb)
* His goal is to become a doctor. (complement)
4. Absolute Phrases:
* Definition: An absolute phrase consists of a noun or pronoun followed by a participle and its modifiers. It modifies the entire sentence, not just a particular noun.
* Function: Absolute phrases provide additional information about the context or circumstances of the sentence.
* Examples:
* The sun shining brightly, we went for a walk.
* His eyes narrowed in suspicion, he approached the stranger.
Note: It's important to remember that verbal phrases are always part of a larger sentence. They cannot stand alone as complete sentences.