Explanation
In grammar studies the term verb phrase (VP) has been defined in different ways. On the Englicious website we mainly use the first definition.
1. A verb phrase is a phrase in which a lexical verb functions as the Head. The Head can occur alone or together with one or more auxiliary verbs:
In this conception of verb phrase the direct object and possible adjuncts are not included in the VP.
Note: The label 'verb phrase' is not used in the National Curriculum. The National Curriculum defines a clause as "a special type of phrase whose Head is a verb".
2. A verb phrase is a phrase in which a lexical verb functions as the Head; it can also contain elements other than verbs. In the sentence below the verb phrase comprises only the intransitive verb blush:
But in the next two sentences the VP consists of a verb and a following noun phrase taken together:
In these sentences the NPs function as Direct Object.
In addition to an Object a verb phrase may also contain an Adverbial:
See also clause.
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