Intervening phrases

Definition

Intervening phrases are groups of words that separate the subject from the verb in a sentence, often adding additional information. These phrases can sometimes lead to confusion in understanding the main point of a sentence, especially when the subject and verb are not immediately adjacent. Recognizing and correctly identifying intervening phrases is crucial for clear communication and helps to avoid common grammar errors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intervening phrases can include prepositional phrases, adjectives, or adverbs that provide additional details about the subject but do not change the fundamental meaning of the sentence.
2. When identifying intervening phrases, it is important to isolate the subject and verb to ensure the sentence is grammatically correct and clear.
3. Misplaced intervening phrases can lead to ambiguity, making it difficult for readers to identify the main action or subject of a sentence.
4. Common examples of intervening phrases include expressions like 'along with,' 'together with,' and 'as well as,' which can complicate sentence structure.
5. Writers should strive for clarity by keeping intervening phrases short and ensuring they do not distract from the main idea or action in a sentence.

Review Questions

• How do intervening phrases affect the clarity of a sentence?
  • Intervening phrases can create confusion by separating the subject from the verb, making it harder for readers to quickly grasp the main idea. If these phrases are too long or complex, they can obscure who is performing the action or what is being described. For clear communication, it's important to recognize these phrases and ensure that they do not distract from the core message of the sentence.
• What strategies can writers use to avoid confusion caused by intervening phrases?
  • Writers can enhance clarity by minimizing the length of intervening phrases and ensuring that they do not disrupt the flow between subjects and verbs. It’s helpful to isolate the subject and verb when revising sentences to see if any unnecessary details can be removed. Additionally, writers should consider rephrasing sentences to keep key elements close together, thus maintaining reader comprehension.
• Evaluate how understanding intervening phrases contributes to effective writing skills and grammar proficiency.
  • Understanding intervening phrases is essential for effective writing because it allows writers to construct clearer sentences that convey their intended messages without ambiguity. This comprehension not only enhances grammar proficiency but also improves overall communication skills. By mastering this concept, writers can create more engaging and easily understood texts, thereby making their arguments more persuasive and impactful.

Related terms

subject:

The part of a sentence or clause that indicates who or what the sentence is about, typically performing the action of the verb.

verb:

A word that describes an action, occurrence, or state of being, serving as a crucial component in forming a sentence.

appositive: A noun or noun phrase placed next to another noun to explain or identify it, which can also act as an intervening phrase.