Understanding the difference between verbal and nominal predicates is crucial in mastering the English language. Both types of predicates play important roles in constructing meaningful sentences. In this blog post, we will demystify the concepts of verbal and nominal predicates and provide you with helpful tips to distinguish between them.

What is a Verbal Predicate?

A verbal predicate is a verb or verb phrase that describes the action or state of the subject in a sentence. It answers the question “what is the subject doing?” or “what state is the subject in?” Verbal predicates can be further classified into three types: transitive, intransitive, and linking verbs.

Transitive Verbs

A transitive verb is an action verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning. It transfers the action from the subject to the object. For example:

  • She bought a new car. (“bought” is the transitive verb, and “a new car” is the direct object)
  • We ate delicious food. (“ate” is the transitive verb, and “delicious food” is the direct object)

Intransitive Verbs

An intransitive verb is an action verb that does not require a direct object to complete its meaning. It expresses an action that does not transfer to anyone or anything. For example:

  • The birds sang beautifully. (“sang” is the intransitive verb)
  • He ran to catch the bus. (“ran” is the intransitive verb)

Linking Verbs

A linking verb connects the subject to a noun, pronoun, or adjective that describes or renames it. They do not express action but rather a state of being. Some common linking verbs include “be,” “seem,” “appear,” “become,” and “feel.” For example:

  • She is a talented singer. (“is” is the linking verb)
  • The cake smells delicious. (“smells” is the linking verb)

What is a Nominal Predicate?

A nominal predicate, also known as a predicate noun or predicate adjective, provides additional information about the subject. It consists of a noun, pronoun, or adjective that follows a linking verb. It helps to describe or identify the subject. For example:

  • He is an architect. (“an architect” is the predicate noun)
  • The flowers are beautiful. (“beautiful” is the predicate adjective)

How to Distinguish Between Verbal and Nominal Predicates?

Here are some tips to help you distinguish between verbal and nominal predicates:

  • Identify the verb in the sentence. If it expresses an action or state, it is a verbal predicate.
  • If there is a linking verb (e.g., be, seem) followed by a noun, pronoun, or adjective, it is a nominal predicate.
  • Check if the verb requires a direct object. If it does, it is a transitive verb.
  • If the verb does not require a direct object but still expresses an action, it is an intransitive verb.

By understanding the differences between verbal and nominal predicates and practicing the identification process, you can enhance your sentence construction skills and communicate more effectively in English.

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