Which type of phrase typically begins with a preposition?

• A. Interrogative phrase
• B. Participial phrase
• C. Prepositional phrase
• D. Infinitive phrase

Answer: (C)

A prepositional phrase is characterized by starting with a preposition and typically includes a preposition followed by a noun phrase, which is often called the object of the preposition. This type of phrase is essential in sentence construction, as it provides additional details about time, location, direction, manner, or relationships between different elements within a sentence. For example, in the phrase "in the morning," "in" is the preposition, and "the morning" serves as the object of the preposition.

Other types of phrases do not have this structure. An interrogative phrase, for instance, is used to pose a question and is not defined by the presence of a preposition. A participial phrase begins with a participle and includes modifiers and complements, adding depth to a sentence but without a preposition. An infinitive phrase begins with an infinitive verb form, often preceded by "to," and also does not start with a preposition. Therefore, the defining feature of a prepositional phrase is its initiation with a preposition, distinguishing it from these other phrase types.