nominal phrase
Noun: A nominal phrase is a word or group of words that functions in a sentence as a noun does. It can act as the subject, object, or complement of a verb. The core of a nominal phrase is typically a noun or pronoun, but it can also be a gerund, an infinitive, or a clause that behaves like a noun.
A nominal phrase is used to name a person, place, thing, or idea, but as a multi-word unit rather than a single noun. It performs the same grammatical roles as a single noun.
- As Subject: jumps over the lazy dog.
- As Direct Object: She enjoys .
- As Subject Complement: His greatest wish is .
- As Object of a Preposition: We talked about .
- Gerund Phrases: A gerund (verb+ing) and its related words form a common type of nominal phrase (e.g., requires dedication).
- Infinitive Phrases: An infinitive ("to" + verb) and its objects/modifiers can function as a nominal phrase (e.g., is human).
- Noun Clauses: A clause (containing a subject and verb) that acts as a noun is a nominal phrase (e.g., I know ).
- Noun Phrase (NP): This is the most common and often synonymous term for "nominal phrase." In many linguistic contexts, "noun phrase" is the preferred term.
- Nominal: An adjective describing something that functions like a noun (e.g., a group).
- Noun Phrase (NP)
- Substantive Phrase
The term "nominal phrase" is specific to grammar and linguistics. It does not have other common meanings related to finance ("nominal value") or something being in name only ("nominal leader")—those meanings are associated with the adjective "nominal" itself, not the phrase "nominal phrase."
- a phrase that can function as the subject or object of a verb