English Grammar: Sentence Modifiers, Clauses, and Conjunctions

Sentence Modifier

A word, phrase, or clause that modifies the sentence as a whole.

Adverb of Manner

An adverb that refers to how or in what manner an action is carried out. Most are derived from adjectives with the addition of -ly: quickly, merrily.

Noun Phrase

Many noun phrases that function adverbially resemble objects of prepositions.

Infinitive Phrase

When functioning adverbially, the verb phrase does not include a verb indicating tense.

End Focus

The common rhythm pattern in which the prominent stress falls on or near the final sentence unit.

Subordinating conjunction

A conjunction that introduces a dependent clause and expresses the relationship of the clause to the main clause.

Adverbial clause

A dependent clause modifying a verb; begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Dependent clause

A clause that functions as an adverbial, adjectival, or nominal (cannot stand as a sentence).

Elliptical clause

A clause in which a part has been left out but is understood: When (you are) planning your essay, be sure to consider your audience.

Redundancy

Unnecessary repetition (watch out for proliferating prepositional phrases).