How do you find a verbal phrase in a sentence then identify it as a gerund, particpial, or infinitive phrase?
Study these sites carefully.
http://www.iconlogic.com/Verbal_Phrases.htm
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/627/1/
To find a verbal phrase in a sentence and identify it as a gerund, participial, or infinitive phrase, you need to understand the different forms and functions of these verbal phrases.
1. Identify the verb: Look for a word in the sentence that is functioning as a verb. Verbs express actions or states of being.
2. Determine the form of the verbal phrase: Once you have identified the verb, it's important to recognize the form of the verbal phrase associated with it:
a. Gerund phrase: A gerund phrase consists of a gerund, which is a verb form ending in "-ing," followed by any modifiers or objects. Gerunds act as nouns in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "He enjoys swimming in the ocean," the gerund phrase is "swimming in the ocean."
b. Participial phrase: A participial phrase contains a participle, which is a verb form that usually ends in "-ed" or "-ing." Participles can function as adjectives in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "The broken window needs repair," the participial phrase is "broken window."
c. Infinitive phrase: An infinitive phrase includes an infinitive verb form, which appears as the base form of the verb (e.g., "to swim," "to eat"). Infinitives often act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "She wants to play in the park," the infinitive phrase is "to play in the park."
3. Analyze the function of the phrase: Once you have identified the form of the verbal phrase, consider its role in the sentence. Does it function as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb? This will provide further evidence for your identification.
Remember that context is crucial when identifying verbal phrases correctly. Pay attention to the words surrounding the verbal phrase to determine its role in the sentence and to avoid misinterpretation.