what are absolute phrases
Absolute Phrases: Introduction. Definition and rules. An absolute phrase is a modifier (quite often a participle), or a modifier and a few other words, that attaches to a sentence or a noun, with no conjunction. An absolute phrase cannot contain a finite verb. Absolute phrases usually consist of a noun and a modifier that modifies this noun, NOT another noun in the sentence. Absolute phrases are optional in sentences, i.e., they can be removed without damaging the grammatical integrity of the sentence.
The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by an adjective. Their shoes muddy, the children were not allowed into the house. The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by a past participle. His keys lost, Bobby searched his apartment frantically. Its wings spread, the eagle circled above the lake. The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by a past participial phrase. Her house destroyed by a tornado, Valentina moved in with her sister. His baby daughter calmed by a bottle, Jamal continued to clean the kitchen. The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by a present participle. Its tires screeching, the car came to a stop before crashing. His heart racing, Ryan asked his girlfriend to marry him. The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by a present participial phrase. Their son walking across the stage, Joel and LaToya applauded proudly. Confetti fluttering to the ground, the crowed celebrated the new year. The noun of an absolute phrase can be modified by a prepositional phrase.