verbless clauses

verbless clauses: ◊ GRAMMAR

Most clauses contain a verb. However, some groups of words have the same function as a main clause or a subordinate clause, but do not contain a verb. These groups of words are called verbless clauses.
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The following examples show verbless clauses used as exclamations and questions.

What a pleasant surprise!

What about your breakfast?

Well, professor?

Drink, Ted?
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In writing, verbless subordinate clauses are sometimes used. These clauses can be based on an adjective, or on a subordinating conjunction and an adjective.

Surprised at my reaction, she tried to console me.

Weak with laughter, they lumbered off.

Though not very attractive physically, she possessed a good sense of humour.

Fry the fritters on both sides until golden brown.
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For information on the conjunctions that can be used in this way with an adjective and no verb, see entry at ↑ Subordinate clauses.
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Other verbless subordinate clauses are based on a noun group and an adjective or adverbial describing a state. These clauses are used to describe people in stories.

`What do you mean by that?' said Hugh, his face pale.

I became aware that Otto was standing close by, his eyes wide, his mouth slightly open.

Marie Pennington sat in her study, her head in her hands.
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Note that `with' is often used in front of groups of words like these.

She walked on, with her eyes straight ahead.
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