What is the definition of a phrase?

A phrase is a group of words that functions as a single unit of meaning, but lacks a subject and verb combination that would make it a complete sentence.

Here's a breakdown:

* Unit of meaning: Phrases convey a specific meaning, even though they don't form a complete thought.

* No subject-verb combination: They are missing the core elements of a sentence (who or what is doing the action, and what is happening).

Types of Phrases:

* Noun phrase: Acts as a noun. Example: "The red car"

* Verb phrase: Acts as a verb. Example: "is running quickly"

* Adjective phrase: Acts as an adjective. Example: "very happy"

* Adverb phrase: Acts as an adverb. Example: "with great enthusiasm"

* Prepositional phrase: Begins with a preposition and ends with an object. Example: "under the table"

* Gerund phrase: Begins with a gerund (verb ending in -ing) and functions as a noun. Example: "Running a marathon"

* Participial phrase: Begins with a participle (verb ending in -ing or -ed) and functions as an adjective. Example: "Walking down the street, he saw a dog"

* Infinitive phrase: Begins with "to" + verb and functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb. Example: "To eat cake"

Examples of phrases in sentences:

* "The big red ball bounced across the room." (Noun phrase)

* "He is eating a sandwich." (Verb phrase)

* "The very happy child laughed." (Adjective phrase)

* "She ran very quickly." (Adverb phrase)

* "He sat under the tree." (Prepositional phrase)

* "Swimming in the ocean is fun." (Gerund phrase)

* "Covered in mud, the dog ran inside." (Participial phrase)

* "He wants to learn how to play the guitar." (Infinitive phrase)