What is Verb Phrase | Examples and Rules
Verbs are commonly used for mentioning any action or states of being done by the subjects in a sentence. Despite this, verbs are also used for forming verb phrases which can be a group of words do the function like a verb. A verb phrase combines an auxiliary verb and a main verb together where auxiliary verbs come before the main verbs. In this article, we are going to discuss about verb phrase in detail by explaining its related rules for application.
Verbs are usually used for mentioning any action done by a particular subject. Sentences are considered complete only after using a definite verb with the subject. Verbs can be any type like action verbs or linking verbs which connects the subjects with objects and other additional information. From the attached information we came to know more about the subject within a sentence. Action verbs always explain certain activities whereas linking verbs mention any certain condition for occurring an action by the subject.
Examples
Casper seems angry with me.
He teaches mathematics in school.
Rules
Verb phrase refers to the single form of combination which includes verb, verb complement, adverb and object in a single sentence. A verb phrase can have different functions depending upon the contexts or conditions. To understand the functions we have explained the rules of using verb phrases which is a must learning topic for all students. They will find the rules mentioned below:
i) Verb phrase are defined as part of a clause which consists of verb along with other words for describing completely about the subject.
Ex.
He was walking slowly to the bank of the river.
ii) It can also be used as a phrase which functions just like an adjective or adverb where verbs and its complements will be given as modifiers and other objects.
Ex.
At the end, we can reach home early to spend some time alone.
When she comes, we will visit our parents together.
iii) Verb phrase is also used like the predicate part of a sentence where auxiliary verbs will be used before main verbs.
Ex.
You must finish your homework before going to bed.
The employees are not interested in working hard at all.
iv) Verb phrase is called as finite when there is only one verb present in the sentence either in present tense or in past tense.
Ex.
Every Sunday morning, I go to practice swimming.
v) In non-finite verbs phrases the head verb can be any one from participle, gerund and infinitive depending upon the contexts of sentences.
Ex.
She is experiencing great event in our annual programme.
Her hobby is travelling off-beat places.
FAQs:
- Why should students learn verb phrases?
Answer. Verb has vast usage in different contexts based upon the various conditions which students can do correctly after having depth knowledge of verb. Verb phrase is an important part which can be used for different functions within a sentence. So, students must learn this topic with complete concentration.
- From where do students will get right resource of verb phrase?
Answer. Students will find this article helpful and quite informative after studying all rules along with examples which are explained in easy language.