Identify whether the underlined phrase is a gerund phrase, an infinitive phrase, or a participial phrase.
(Having graduated) summa laude from Princeton, Patrick was ready to start.
A. gerund
B. infinitive
C. participial
** My answer is A. gerund **
No. A gerund is a noun. But this phrase describes the noun, Patrick.
No problem. Yes, it's a participle.
My apologies, it's C. participial
Thank you so much Ms Sue, hope you have a good rest of your afternoon / evening. :)
You're welcome -- and you, too.
To identify whether the underlined phrase is a gerund phrase, an infinitive phrase, or a participial phrase, we need to understand the different characteristics and functions of each phrase type.
- A gerund phrase consists of a gerund (a verb form ending in -ing) plus any modifiers or complements. It functions as a noun in the sentence.
- An infinitive phrase consists of an infinitive (the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to") plus any modifiers or complements. It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in the sentence.
- A participial phrase consists of a participle (a verb form ending in -ed, -en, -ing, or irregular forms) plus any modifiers or complements. It functions as an adjective in the sentence.
In the given sentence, the underlined phrase is "Having graduated." This phrase starts with the present participle "Having," which is the form of the verb "to have" in the present participle form (-ing). The phrase does not start with "to" or a base form of a verb, ruling out the possibility of it being an infinitive phrase.
"Had graduated" is not a gerund phrase either because it does not function as a noun in the sentence. Instead, it is describing Patrick's past action or state.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. participial.