The Phrase

Syntax is that part which deals with the structure of the sentence

PHRASES

A phrase is a group of words without subject or predicate , that functions as a single part of speech.. The following expressions are phrases :

Along the road
To the bank
In the garden
To dance in the program
Near the park

Types of phrases

A. Prepositional Phrase . A prepositional phrase consists of a preposition, object of the preposition and any modifiers of the object . An object of the preposition is the noun or pronoun after a preposition .For example : toward the ocean , after him .
In the following sentences , the prepositional phrases are enclosed in parentheses. The preposition is marked prep . and the object of the preposition , o.p.
Prep. Op Prep. Op Prep. Op
Frequent changes ( in the weather ) are hard ( on all kinds ) ( of roads ) .
Prep. Op Prep. Op
We went ( to the movie ) (after the examination ) .
B. Verbal Phrase . A verbal phrase consists of a verbal and all its complements and modifier . There are three types of verbal phrases :
1. Participial Phrases . A participial phrase is a group of words that contains a participle and all its modifiers and complements . It functions like an adjective . Participles are verb forms that end with ing , ed or en .
Examples :
The little girl , dancing gracefully , smiles at me .
We went to the party bringing our escorts .
2. Infinitive Phrase . An infinitive phrase is a group of words that contains an infinitive verb form ( to + verb ) and that functions like a noun , an adjective , or an adverb . It may contain objects , subject complements , or modifiers .
Examples :
I hope to visit Mexico this summer.
In order to fly , a duck must be about six weeks old .
3 . Gerund Phrase. A gerund phrase is a group of words that contains a gerund ( ing verb form ) and that functions like a noun . It may contain objects , subject complements , or modifiers .
Examples :
Driving when you are overly tired is dangerous .
Winning this contest made her popular in the school .