Understanding Absolute Phrases in Sentences

The video tutorial explains absolute phrases, which describe parts of a sentence, particularly the subject. It discusses their unique properties, how to test them by adding 'was' or 'were', and how they can enhance writing by adding description and imagery. Examples are provided to show how absolute phrases can improve sentence quality. The structure of absolute phrases is outlined, emphasizing the use of a noun followed by a participle. The tutorial also covers the importance of using commas correctly when incorporating absolute phrases into sentences.

What is the primary function of an absolute phrase in a sentence?

• To act as the main verb

• To describe the subject or another part of the sentence

• To replace the subject

• To serve as a conjunction

How do absolute phrases differ from participial phrases?

• They are always at the beginning of a sentence

• They do not describe any part of the sentence

• They are used to join two sentences

• They have unique properties and are constructed differently

What is a unique property of absolute phrases?

• They always start with a verb

• They can stand alone as complete sentences

• They are used to ask questions

• They are only used in poetry

How can you test if a phrase is an absolute phrase?

• By adding 'do' or 'does'

• By adding 'was' or 'were'

• By adding 'is' or 'are'

• By adding 'has' or 'have'

What is the effect of adding an absolute phrase to a sentence?

• It makes the sentence a question

• It makes the sentence longer

• It adds detail and richness

• It changes the tense of the sentence

In the example 'His hand raw, he reached a place at the top', what does the absolute phrase do?

• It introduces a new character

• It changes the subject of the sentence

• It provides a visual image of the action

• It acts as the main verb

What is the best quality of absolute phrases according to the video?

• They are always at the end of a sentence

• They create a visual image like a movie

• They are only used in formal writing

• They are used to start a new paragraph

How does the sentence 'She returned to her bench, her face showing all the unhappiness' improve the original?

• It makes the sentence shorter

• It introduces a new setting

• It adds emotional depth and detail

• It changes the subject

What is the basic structure of an absolute phrase?

• A conjunction followed by a noun

• An adjective followed by a verb

• A noun followed by a participle

• A verb followed by a noun

What can follow the participle in an absolute phrase?

• Only a verb

• Only an adjective

• Optional elements for more detail

• Only another noun