Prepositional Phrases

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Prepositional Phrases
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What is a phrase?

• A group of words without a subject and a verb
  that functions in a sentence as one part of
  speech.

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What is a prepositional phrase?

• A prepositional phrase is made up of a
  preposition and a noun or pronoun, called the
  object of the preposition.

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Preposition Modifiers Object of the Preposition
INTO THE WOODS
BESIDE THE COOL BABBLING BROOK
UNDER THE COMPUTER TABLE
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Functions

• Prepositional phrases can function as adjectives
  by modifying a noun or pronoun.

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Examples of prepositional phrases acting as
adjectives

• The tepee of buffalo hide was sturdy.
• The decoration on the hide was painted carefully.
• The opening in the front was narrow.

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Functions

• Prepositional phrases can function as adverbs by
  modifying a verb, adjective, or adverb.
• When acting as an adverb, a prepositional phrase
  will point out where, when, in what way or to
  what extent.

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Examples of prepositional phrases acting as
adverbs

• Abstract animal figures were carved in totem
  poles. (carved where?)-V
• Southwestern act dates back before Columbus
  (dates back when?)-V
• The forest was quiet before dawn. (quiet
  when?)-Adj
• He arrived late for lunch. (late to what
  extent?)-Adv