Phrases
A phrase is a group of words that functions as a unit in a sentence — but unlike a clause, it does not contain both a subject and a finite verb. Recognising phrase types helps you build richer, more accurate sentences.
What is a phrase?
A phrase is a group of words that works together as a single grammatical unit. The key difference between a phrase and a clause is that a phrase lacks a subject–verb combination.
| Group of words | Subject + verb? | Type |
|---|---|---|
| the old red bicycle | No | Phrase (noun phrase) |
| running down the hill | No | Phrase (participial phrase) |
| she runs down the hill | Yes | Clause |
The five main types of phrase
1. Noun phrase (NP)
Built around a noun or pronoun, with modifiers before or after it. Functions as a subject, object, or complement.
The tall woman in the red coat waved at me.
I saw a magnificent golden eagle.
Her kindness surprised everyone.
2. Verb phrase (VP)
Built around a main verb, including auxiliaries, adverbs, and objects. It forms the predicate of a clause.
She has been working all morning.
They might have already left.
He quietly opened the door.
3. Adjective phrase (AdjP)
Built around an adjective, often with an adverb modifying it. Describes a noun or pronoun.
The film was incredibly boring.
She seemed very upset about the result.
He is proud of his students.
4. Adverb phrase (AdvP)
Built around an adverb, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. Tells how, when, where, or to what degree.
She spoke very quietly.
He finished far too quickly.
They arrived earlier than expected.
5. Prepositional phrase (PP)
Begins with a preposition and ends with a noun phrase. Functions as an adjective (describing a noun) or adverb (modifying a verb).
The book on the shelf is mine. (adjective — describes 'book')
She sat by the window. (adverb — tells where)
He arrived after midnight. (adverb — tells when)
Summary table
| Phrase type | Head word | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noun phrase | Noun/pronoun | Subject, object, complement | the old red car |
| Verb phrase | Main verb | Predicate | has been singing |
| Adjective phrase | Adjective | Describes a noun | extremely happy |
| Adverb phrase | Adverb | Modifies verb/adjective/adverb | very slowly |
| Prepositional phrase | Preposition | Adjective or adverb role | under the table |
Phrase ≠ clause: A phrase cannot stand alone as a sentence. "Running down the street" is a phrase — it has no subject. Add a subject and finite verb to make a clause: "She was running down the street."
Tip: Every phrase has a head word — the most important word the phrase is built around. The head word names the type of phrase: a noun phrase is built around a noun, a verb phrase around a verb, and so on.