Question

Writers use verbal phrases containing gerunds, infinitives, and participles to add variety and interest to their writing. What type of phrase is the underlined phrase in the sentence? A) A gerund phrase. B) An infinitive phrase. C) A participial phrase. D) A prepositional phrase.

Answer 1

Without the provided sentence, it is impossible to identify whether the underlined phrase is a gerund, infinitive, or participial phrase. Each of these phrases serves different grammatical functions: gerund phrases act as nouns, infinitive phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs, and participial phrases typically work as adjectives.

Step-by-step explanation:

In English grammar, gerund phrases, infinitive phrases, and participial phrases are used to add depth and variety to writing. Without the sentence provided in the question, we cannot determine which type of phrase the underlined phrase is. However, we can define each:

• A gerund phrase features a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun and can take the place of a noun in a sentence.
• An infinitive phrase includes the word 'to' followed by the base form of a verb and can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb.
• A participial phrase includes a verb typically ending in -ing or -ed and acts as an adjective.

For example, 'Running marathons is exhausting' contains a gerund phrase (Running marathons) as the subject, 'To win the race would be an honor' starts with an infinitive phrase (To win the race) as the subject, and 'Exhausted from the run, she took a nap' contains a participial phrase (Exhausted from the run) modifying the subject.

Answer 2

The underlined phrase is a participial phrase (C). Participial phrases, formed with verbs ending in "-ing" or "-ed," enhance sentence details and contribute to writing richness.

Step-by-step explanation:

Participial phrases are formed with verbs ending in "-ing" or "-ed," known as participles. In the sentence, the underlined phrase is likely to contain a participle that adds descriptive information to a noun. This usage is characteristic of participial phrases. They provide additional details and enhance the overall richness of the sentence. The recognition of the participial phrase helps in understanding the writer's intention to convey more vivid and nuanced descriptions.

Participial phrases are versatile tools in writing, allowing for creative expression and variation in sentence structure. Writers employ them to add depth, detail, and complexity to their prose. By recognizing and using participial phrases effectively, writers can engage readers and create a more dynamic and interesting narrative. The correct identification of the underlined phrase as a participial phrase showcases an understanding of grammar and stylistic choices in writing, contributing to the overall coherence and fluency of the text.