Predicate Noun: What It Is in Simple TermsDo you know what a predicate noun is or how to use one? This type of noun enhances a sentence by providing clarification related to the noun that functions as the subject of the sentence. Learn more about what a predicate noun is and review some examples. Show predicate noun in sentence example Advertisement What Is a Predicate Noun?A predicate noun is a single noun or a noun phrase that renames, further defines or explains the subject of a sentence. This type of noun always follows a form of the verb to be or another linking verb. A predicate noun is also called a predicate nominative. Predicate Noun FunctionsA predicate noun has two functions in a sentence:
Subject and PredicateEvery sentence has a subject and a predicate. The intransitive linking verb and the predicate noun make up the predicate of a sentence. The other noun is the subject of the sentence. Verbs Used With Predicate NounsOnly linking verbs can connect predicate nouns to subjects in sentences. There are many examples of linking verbs. Forms of 'To Be'Forms of the verb to be include:
Other Linking VerbsOther verbs that may function as linking verbs include:
Predicate Nouns in SentencesTo get a better idea of how predicate nouns function in sentences, review some examples of predicate nouns in sentences. In the sentences below, the linking verbs are underlined and the predicate nouns are bold.
Advertisement Predicate Noun vs. Predicate AdjectiveSince you now understand predicate nouns, you may be interested to learn a bit about predicate adjectives. Adjectives modify nouns, which includes describing them and giving more information about them such as, their composition, their origin, your opinion of them, and their purpose. A predicate adjective is very similar to a predicate noun in that it completes the predicate and follows an intransitive verb. However, instead of renaming the subject, it modifies it. In the examples below, the intransitive verbs are underlined and the predicate adjectives are marked in bold.
Explore Other Types of SentencesSentences that include predicate nouns tend to be structured fairly simply. Now that you are familiar with predicate nouns, take the time to explore other sentence structures, including ones that include objects and are therefore more complex. Start by developing an understanding of subjects, predicates and objects. Then, learn more about the different parts of a sentence. Soon you'll be so comfortable writing compound sentences that you'll be ready to move on to even more advanced topics! Mary Gormandy WhiteStaff Writer |