The phrase 'comb hair' is primarily used as a verb phrase where 'comb' is the action and 'hair' is the direct object receiving that action. The most common and grammatically correct way to use it in a sentence is by including a possessive pronoun before 'hair' (e.g., 'my hair,' 'your hair,' 'her hair,' 'his hair,' 'their hair').
Understanding 'Comb' as a Verb
The verb 'to comb' means to pass a comb through something, especially hair, to tidy it, untangle it, or arrange it. It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object. When referring to personal grooming, the object is almost always "one's hair."
Basic Sentence Structures
Here are common ways to construct sentences using 'comb hair':
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Subject + Comb (verb) + Possessive Pronoun + Hair: This is the most natural and frequently used construction.
- Example 1: "I combed my hair before I left home."
- Example 2: "Please comb your hair before you have your photo taken."
- Example 3: "She combed her hair with her fingers because she couldn't find her brush."
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Subject + Comb (verb) + Hair (less common, implies generic hair): While grammatically possible, using "comb hair" without a possessive pronoun often sounds less natural unless you're talking about the general action of styling hair, not a specific person's hair.
- Example: "It's important to comb hair regularly to prevent tangles." (Here, "hair" is used generically).
Verb Forms and Tenses
The verb 'comb' changes form depending on the tense and subject. Here's a quick reference:
| Tense | Subject (Singular) | Subject (Plural) | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Present Simple | I comb, You comb, He/She/It combs | We comb, They comb | He combs his hair every morning. |
| Past Simple | I combed, You combed, He/She/It combed | We combed, They combed | She combed her hair neatly. |
| Present Cont. | I am combing, You are combing, He/She/It is combing | We are combing, They are combing | He is combing his hair right now. |
| Future Simple | I will comb, You will comb, He/She/It will comb | We will comb, They will comb | I will comb my hair after my shower. |
| Infinitive | to comb | to comb | It's important to comb your hair gently. |
Practical Examples and Insights
To enhance your understanding, consider these practical applications and nuances:
- Routine Actions: Use 'comb' to describe a regular grooming activity.
- "He always combs his hair carefully for work."
- Instruction or Request: When giving a direction to someone.
- "Could you please comb your daughter's hair? It looks a bit messy."
- Describing a Scene: To illustrate an action someone is performing.
- "The model paused to comb her hair backstage."
- Specifying the Tool: You can mention the tool used after the object.
- "She combed her hair with a fine-toothed comb."
- "He quickly combed his hair with his fingers."
Enhancing Sentence Structure for Clarity
For clearer and more natural English, always try to specify whose hair is being combed. Using possessive pronouns (my, your, his, her, its, our, their) or a possessive noun (e.g., "Mary's hair") is key.
- Incorrect (or less natural): "You should comb hair."
- Correct and Natural: "You should comb your hair."
- Correct and Natural: "Mary needs to comb her hair."
For more detailed information on verb usage, you can refer to reputable grammar resources like Collins Dictionary.
