nounphrase

A noun phrase (NP) is a grammatical unit built around a noun that can function as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. The head noun conveys the core meaning, while determiners, modifiers, and complements provide grammatical features and additional information. NPs can include pronouns (she), proper nouns (London), and common nouns in various forms.

Structure: The nucleus is the head noun. Determiners or numerals may precede it (the, a, two). Pre-modifiers such as adjectives or noun modifiers appear before the head noun (the tall, red apple). Post-modifiers follow the head and can be prepositional phrases or relative clauses (the book on the table, the student who arrived). Possessive markers may attach to the noun (my sister's car). NPs range from simple (cat) to complex (the old man with the white beard and a cane).

Functions and distribution: NPs can occupy subject, direct object, indirect object, or oblique positions. Their internal structure can affect meaning and focus, such as scope of quantifiers (two dogs vs. all dogs). In many languages, noun phrases show different orders and case markings, but the general idea of a noun-centered phrase with determiners and modifiers is common.