Understanding Predicates and Subjects

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 76 views

Understanding Predicates and Subjects

In the English language, a predicate is a part of a sentence that contains a verb and any accompanying information. It provides more details about the subject of the sentence. A subject, on the other hand, is the person, place, thing, or idea that the sentence is about. In this article, we will explore how to add predicates to various subjects.

1. The Blind Man

Adding a Predicate to the Subject: The Blind Man

The blind man walked slowly down the street.

Subject: The blind man
Predicate: walked slowly down the street

In this example, "walked slowly down the street" is the predicate that provides more information about the subject, "the blind man." The verb "walked" is the main action of the sentence, and "slowly down the street" provides additional details about how and where the blind man walked.

Example Sentences with Different Predicates

The blind man walked slowly down the street. (Simple predicate)
The blind man walked slowly down the street, stopping to ask for directions. (Compound predicate)
The blind man, who was struggling to find his way, walked slowly down the street. (Complex predicate)

2. We

Adding a Predicate to the Subject: We

We are going to the movies tonight.

Subject: We
Predicate: are going to the movies tonight

In this example, "are going to the movies tonight" is the predicate that provides more information about the subject, "we." The verb "are going" is the main action of the sentence, and "to the movies tonight" provides additional details about what we are doing.

Example Sentences with Different Predicates

We are going to the movies tonight. (Simple predicate)
We are going to the movies tonight, and then we will grab some ice cream. (Compound predicate)
We, who have been looking forward to this all week, are going to the movies tonight. (Complex predicate)

3. My Sister

Adding a Predicate to the Subject: My Sister

My sister is studying for her exam.

Subject: My sister
Predicate: is studying for her exam

In this example, "is studying for her exam" is the predicate that provides more information about the subject, "my sister." The verb "is studying" is the main action of the sentence, and "for her exam" provides additional details about what my sister is doing.

Example Sentences with Different Predicates

My sister is studying for her exam. (Simple predicate)
My sister is studying for her exam, and then she will take a break. (Compound predicate)
My sister, who is a diligent student, is studying for her exam. (Complex predicate)

4. Mom

Adding a Predicate to the Subject: Mom

Mom is cooking dinner in the kitchen.

Subject: Mom
Predicate: is cooking dinner in the kitchen

In this example, "is cooking dinner in the kitchen" is the predicate that provides more information about the subject, "mom." The verb "is cooking" is the main action of the sentence, and "dinner in the kitchen" provides additional details about what mom is doing.

Example Sentences with Different Predicates

Mom is cooking dinner in the kitchen. (Simple predicate)
Mom is cooking dinner in the kitchen, and then she will set the table. (Compound predicate)
Mom, who is an excellent cook, is cooking dinner in the kitchen. (Complex predicate)

5. The Dog

Adding a Predicate to the Subject: The Dog

The dog is running around the backyard.

Subject: The dog
Predicate: is running around the backyard

In this example, "is running around the backyard" is the predicate that provides more information about the subject, "the dog." The verb "is running" is the main action of the sentence, and "around the backyard" provides additional details about where the dog is running.

Example Sentences with Different Predicates

The dog is running around the backyard. (Simple predicate)
The dog is running around the backyard, and then it will come back inside. (Compound predicate)
The dog, who loves to play outside, is running around the backyard. (Complex predicate)

Conclusion

Q: What is a predicate in a sentence?

A: A predicate is a part of a sentence that contains a verb and any accompanying information. It provides more details about the subject of the sentence.

Q: What is the difference between a simple predicate and a compound predicate?

A: A simple predicate is a single verb or verb phrase that provides information about the subject. A compound predicate, on the other hand, is two or more verbs or verb phrases that provide information about the subject.

Q: How do I identify the subject and predicate in a sentence?

A: To identify the subject and predicate in a sentence, look for the main action or verb. The subject is the person, place, thing, or idea that the sentence is about, and the predicate is the verb and any accompanying information that provides more details about the subject.

Q: Can a predicate be a single word?

A: Yes, a predicate can be a single word. For example, in the sentence "The dog is happy," "is happy" is a predicate that provides information about the subject, "the dog."

Q: Can a predicate be a phrase?

A: Yes, a predicate can be a phrase. For example, in the sentence "The dog is running around the backyard," "is running around the backyard" is a predicate that provides information about the subject, "the dog."

Q: How do I add a predicate to a subject?

A: To add a predicate to a subject, simply provide more information about the subject using a verb or verb phrase. For example, in the sentence "The dog is happy," "is happy" is a predicate that provides information about the subject, "the dog."

Q: Can a predicate be a complex sentence?

A: Yes, a predicate can be a complex sentence. For example, in the sentence "The dog, who loves to play outside, is running around the backyard," "is running around the backyard" is a predicate that provides information about the subject, "the dog," and "who loves to play outside" is a complex sentence that provides additional information about the subject.

Q: How do I use predicates in different types of sentences?

A: Predicates can be used in different types of sentences, including simple sentences, compound sentences, and complex sentences. For example, in a simple sentence, the predicate is a single verb or verb phrase. In a compound sentence, the predicate is two or more verbs or verb phrases. In a complex sentence, the predicate is a verb or verb phrase that provides information about the subject, and a complex sentence that provides additional information about the subject.

Q: Why is it important to understand predicates?

A: Understanding predicates is important because it helps you to create more complex and interesting sentences. By using predicates effectively, you can provide more information about the subject and create a more engaging and dynamic sentence.

Q: Can I use predicates in writing and speaking?

A: Yes, you can use predicates in writing and speaking. Predicates are an essential part of sentence structure, and using them effectively can help you to communicate more clearly and effectively.

Q: How do I practice using predicates?

A: To practice using predicates, try creating your own sentences using different types of predicates. You can also practice identifying the subject and predicate in different sentences. Additionally, you can try rewriting sentences to make them more complex and interesting by adding predicates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding predicates is an essential part of sentence structure in the English language. By mastering the art of adding predicates to subjects, you can create more complex and interesting sentences that engage and inform your audience. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, practicing using predicates will help you to communicate more effectively and express yourself with confidence.