ABSOLUTE PHRASES

What is an absolute phrase? It is a group of words consisting of a noun or pronoun AND a participle!! There can be other words (modifiers) in the sentence.

Why do we use absolute phrases? Absolute phrases are valuable because they provide layers of detail in our sentences.

If an absolute phrase is in a sentence, can it be removed and the sentence still make sense? YES!!! An absolute phrase adds detail to a sentence, but it is not necessary information for the sentence to make sense.

Do I need to use a comma with absolute phrases? YES!!!! They are ALWAYS set off from the rest of the sentence with a comma or pair of commas. Sometimes they are set off with dashes (but not often).

Can absolute phrase come anywhere in a sentence? YES! Absolute phrases can be at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.

Can you show me some examples of Absolute Phrases? I SURE CAN!! Noun Participle Ex. Their minds whirling from the avalanche of information provided by Mr. Bailey, the students left the classroom in a daze. The italicized part still makes sense on its own.

Lets look at some more examples!!! His head pounding, his hands shaking, the young man knelt and proposed marriage to his girlfriend. What are the two nouns? Head and Hands What are the two participles? Pounding and shaking

Be careful! Sometimes the verb “being” will be omitted! The smell [being] overwhelming, the girl ran from the room.

One More….. Knees knocking, palms sweating, the child crept down the dark hall to investigate the noise. What are the absolute phrases? Knees knocking & Palms sweating

YOUR TURN!!! Work with your partner to: Write a sentence about sports. You must start your sentence with at least two absolute phrases!!!