A noun phrase is a group of words that serves the same purpose as a noun. A noun phrase can be the subject or object of a verb. It can also be the object of a preposition.
Identify the noun clauses in the following sentences.
1. I hope to win the first prize.
2. I tried to solve the puzzle.
3. Did you enjoy reading this book?
4. The boy wants to go home.
5. Horses prefer living in dark stables.
6. The accused refused to answer the question.
7. The boy denied stealing the money.
8. To write such rubbish is disgraceful.
9. I dislike having to punish my kids.
10. I will hate to do such a thing.
Answers
1. Noun phrase: to win the first prize; it acts as the object of the verb hope
2. Noun phrase: to solve the puzzle; it acts as the object of the verb tried
3. Noun phrase: reading this book; it acts as the object of the verb enjoy
4. Noun phrase: to go home; it acts as the object of the verb wants
5. Noun phrase: living in dark stables; it acts as the object of the verb prefer
6. Noun phrase: to answer the question; it acts as the object of the verb refused
7. Noun phrase: stealing the money; it acts as the object of the verb denied
8. Noun phrase: to write such rubbish; it acts as the subject of the verb is.
9. Noun phrase: having to punish my kids; it acts as the object of the verb dislike.
10. Noun phrase: to do such a thing; it acts as the object of the verb hate.