Phrases are groups of words that lack a subject, a verb, or both (37d). When phrases are punctuated like sentences, they become fragments. To revise such a fragment, either attach it to an independent clause or make it a separate sentence.

The word group with discussions afterward is a prepositional phrase, not a sentence. The editing combines the phrase with an independent clause.

A strict set of regulations for builders and corporations is an appositive phrase renaming the noun zoning laws. The editing attaches the fragment to the sentence containing that noun.

To recuperate and to take care of the baby includes verbals, not verbs. The revision—adding a subject (she) and a verb (wanted)—turns the fragment into a separate sentence.

Avoiding fragments beginning with transitions

If you introduce an example or explanation with a transition, such as one of the following, be certain you write a sentence, not a fragment.

In the original, the second word group is a phrase, not a sentence. The editing combines it with an independent clause.