NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What type of phrase begins with a preposition and includes a noun or pronoun?

1. Participial phrase

2. Prepositional phrase

3. Gerund phrase

4. Infinitive phrase

The correct answer is: Prepositional phrase

The correct choice is a prepositional phrase, which specifically begins with a preposition and is followed by a noun or pronoun, known as the object of the preposition. For example, in the phrase "in the park," "in" is the preposition, and "the park" serves as the noun that completes the phrase. Prepositional phrases can provide important details about location, time, direction, and more, helping to create clarity and context in sentences. The other types of phrases serve different functions. A participial phrase is formed from a verb and can include additional modifiers or objects, functioning as an adjective. A gerund phrase begins with a gerund, which is a verb form ending in -ing that acts as a noun. An infinitive phrase starts with "to" followed by a verb and can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb. Each of these phrases has distinct characteristics and uses, which differentiates them from prepositional phrases.