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

Which term describes a phrase that begins with a word that normally acts as a verb but serves a different role?

1. Adjective phrase

2. Verbal phrase

3. Prepositional phrase

4. Clausal phrase

The correct answer is: Verbal phrase

The correct term that describes a phrase beginning with a word that normally acts as a verb but serves a different role is called a verbal phrase. Verbal phrases are formed by taking a verb and using it in various forms that allow it to function as another part of speech, such as an adjective, noun, or adverb within the sentence. For example, in the phrase "running swiftly," the word "running" is derived from a verb but acts as an adjective describing a noun. An adjective phrase refers to a group of words that function together as an adjective, typically describing a noun, whereas a prepositional phrase begins with a preposition and commonly includes a noun or pronoun, functioning as a modifier or indicating location. A clausal phrase, on the other hand, consists of a group of words containing a subject and a verb, which can stand alone or form a part of a sentence but does not specifically focus on the notion of a verb taking on a different role. Therefore, verbal phrases uniquely embody the concept of a verb adapting to serve in various roles, aligning perfectly with the question's premise.