How do noun phrases function in sentences?

Phrases Uses Of Phrases Questions Medium



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How do noun phrases function in sentences?

Noun phrases function in sentences as the subject, object, or complement. As the subject, a noun phrase typically initiates the action or state of being in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "The cat is sleeping," the noun phrase "The cat" functions as the subject. As the object, a noun phrase receives the action of the verb or is the recipient of the action. In the sentence "She bought a new car," the noun phrase "a new car" functions as the direct object. Lastly, as the complement, a noun phrase completes the meaning of a linking verb and renames or describes the subject. In the sentence "He is a doctor," the noun phrase "a doctor" functions as the complement. Overall, noun phrases play essential roles in sentence structure by providing information about people, places, things, or ideas.