Learn how to master English sentence structure by understanding Subject and Predicate, the two fundamental parts that make up every complete sentence in English grammar.
What is a Subject and Predicate?
Look at the following sentences:
- Ram sings.
- The dog barks.
- His work is done,
- His name is known.
- A clever boy will act thus.
- My brother has gone.
Each of the above sentences may be divided into two parts, thus: Subject and Predicate.
| Subject | Predicate |
|---|---|
| Ram | sings. |
| The dog | barks. |
| His work | is done. |
| His name | is known. |
| A clever boy | will act thus. |
| My brother | has gone. |
How to Identify the Subject in a Sentence
The first parts denote the persons or things about whom or which something is said. They are called 'Subject'.
The subject is a word, or a group or words, that denotes the person or thing about whom or which something is said. It must be a noun or a noun equivalent, and may consist of any number of words.
How to Identify the Predicate in a Sentence
The second parts denote what are said about the subjects. They are called 'Predicate'.
The Predicate is a word, or a group of words, that denotes what is said about the subject. It must contain at least a finite verb, expressed or understood.
When is the Subject Understood in Sentences?
The Subject is often understood in some sentences, especially in Imperative ones. Thus,
- Go there = You go there.
- Sit down = You sit down.
In analysing such sentences, the subject has to be supplied.
Key Takeaways
- Every complete sentence consists of two main parts: a subject and a predicate.
- The subject tells who or what the sentence is about and must be a noun or noun equivalent.
- The predicate tells what the subject is doing or what is said about the subject, containing at least a finite verb.
- In imperative sentences, the subject is often hidden or understood as "you".
Quick Practice
Test your understanding of these grammar concepts by answering the following questions in the comments below:
- Identify the subject and predicate in the sentence: "A clever boy will act thus."
- What is the understood subject in the imperative sentence: "Sit down"?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a subject and predicate?
A subject is the person or thing doing or being something, while the predicate tells what the subject is doing or what is said about it.
Can a subject consist of multiple words?
Yes, the subject can be a single word, a group of words, and can consist of any number of words as long as it acts as a noun or noun equivalent.
What must a predicate contain?
The predicate must contain at least a finite verb, whether it is explicitly expressed or understood in the context of the sentence.