Infinitive Phrase – Example and Explanation

• Example Sentence:
  We have a proposal to improve the system.

  • Underlined part: to improve the system

  • Correct Option: গ) Infinitive phrase

• Explanation:

  • The phrase to improve the system is formed by to + verb (base form) + extension.

  • Here, it functions as a post-modifier of the noun proposal, effectively modifying the noun (Adjective function).

• Infinitive Phrase Overview:

  • Structure: to + verb (base form) + extension

  • Functions: Can modify Noun, Adjective, or Adverb Phrases

    • As post-modifier → acts like an adjective

    • As subject/object → acts like a noun phrase

  • Example: To read a newspaper is a good habit. (Here, the infinitive phrase acts as a noun phrase.)

Sentence: The cat slept under the table.

• Phrase: under the table

• Type: Prepositional phrase

Explanation:

• “Under the table” starts with the preposition under and is followed by its object the table, forming a prepositional phrase.

• It indicates location (where the cat slept) and functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb slept.

Prepositional Phrase:

• Begins with a preposition (e.g., beside, in, on, at) and includes its object and any modifiers.

• Can function as an adjective (modifying a noun) or an adverb (modifying a verb).

More Examples:

• He sat near the door.

• She stayed close to the fireplace.

Gerund Phrase – Example and Explanation

• Example Sentence:
  Learning a new language demands consistent practice.

  • Underlined part: Learning a new language

  • Function: Gerund Phrase (Noun Phrase)

  • Explanation:

    • Begins with a gerund (Learning = verb + -ing acting as a noun)

    • Functions as the subject of the sentence

    • Hence, it is both a Noun Phrase and a Gerund Phrase

Noun Phrase:

• A noun phrase is a group of words that functions as a noun or pronoun in a sentence.

• It can be modified by adjectives.

Three Types of Noun Phrases:

1. Appositive Phrase:

   • Renames another noun in the sentence, often set off by commas

   • Example: Mr. Rahman, my favorite English teacher, is doing this assignment for me.

2. Gerund Phrase:

   • Starts with a gerund (verb + -ing) and acts as a noun

   • Example: Traveling to new places broadens your perspective.

3. Infinitive Phrase:

   • Begins with an infinitive (to + verb) and includes modifiers

   • Example: His dream is to travel the world.

Source: Cliff's TOEFL