The structure of noun phrases
11 important questions on The structure of noun phrases
What are the main components of noun phrases and their roles?
- Head noun - central part.
- Dependents - include:
- Determiners - mark as definite or indefinite.
- - Complements - clarify the relationship through phrases or clauses.
What is the role of Determiners in noun phrases?
- Mark noun phrases as definites or indefinites.
- Appear as:
- Determinatives (e.g., almost all students).
- - Genitive noun phrases (e.g., the girl's voice).
How does definiteness affect the use of noun phrases?
- Indicating known (definite) or unknown (indefinite) quantities.
- Using "the" as a marker of definiteness.
- Contextually clarifying meanings in sentences.
- Higher grades + faster learning
- Never study anything twice
- 100% sure, 100% understanding
What defines Complements in noun phrases?
- Preposition phrases (e.g., review of the play).
- Subordinate clauses (e.g., idea that he might be ill).
- Clarifying relationships between nouns.
What are the characteristics of Determiners within noun phrases?
- Found only in noun phrases.
- Can be determinatives (e.g., too few volunteers) or genitive noun phrases (e.g., my book).
- Mark nouns as definite or indefinite.
How do Complements function in noun phrases?
- Providing essential information about the noun.
- Including specific preposition phrases (e.g., ban on alcohol).
- Incorporating subordinate clauses (e.g., opportunity to make friends).
What examples illustrate how to understand determiners as definite or indefinite?
- Definite: the Premier of NSW, this book.
- Indefinite: a politician, enough copies.
- Context influences clarity for indefinite phrases.
What typically constitutes a pre-Head Modifier?
- Adjectives
- Adjective phrases
Can nouns also serve as Modifiers to Head nouns?
- a school play
- the unemployment situation.
What are typical examples of post-Head Modifiers?
- Preposition phrases
- Subordinate clauses
Where can Modifiers appear in relation to the Determiner?
- all the books
- both these plays
- too small a car for our needs.
The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:
- A unique study and practice tool
- Never study anything twice again
- Get the grades you hope for
- 100% sure, 100% understanding
