Identify the complete predicate of a sentence

Key Notes:-

What is a Predicate?

The predicate of a sentence tells what the subject does or is. It’s the action or state of being.

Every sentence has two main parts: a subject and a predicate.

Think of it this way: The subject is who or what the sentence is about, and the predicate is what about the subject.

Complete Predicate Definition

The complete predicate includes the verb and all the words that modify the verb or complete its meaning. It’s everything in the sentence except the subject. It tells us everything the subject does or is.

Examples of Complete Predicates

Let’s look at some examples:

  • The dog barked loudly at the mailman.
  • My sister is a talented artist.
  • The birds are singing sweetly in the trees.
  • We will go to the park tomorrow.

In each of these sentences, the part in bold is the complete predicate.

Tips for Finding the Complete Predicate

Here are some tips to help you find the complete predicate:

  1. Find the verb: The verb is the action word or the word that shows a state of being (like is, are, was, were).
  2. Ask ‘What about the subject?’: Once you find the subject, ask yourself, ‘What does the sentence say about the subject?’ The answer will be the complete predicate.
  3. Include all modifying words: Make sure you include all the words that describe or add to the verb. These are part of the complete predicate.
  4. Remember it’s EVERYTHING but the subject: The easiest way to identify the complete predicate is to first identify the subject, and then simply include every other word in the sentence.
Example 1:

The cat slept soundly on the rug.

Subject: The cat
Complete Predicate: slept soundly on the rug.		Example 2:

The students are learning about complete predicates.

Subject: The students
Complete Predicate: are learning about complete predicates.
Practice Time!

Identify the complete predicate in the following sentences:

  1. The little boy ran quickly down the street.
  2. My favorite flower is a bright yellow sunflower.
  3. The airplane flew high above the clouds.
  4. We will have pizza for dinner tonight.
  5. The old house stands on a hill.

Understanding complete predicates helps you understand how sentences are built and how to write clearly. Keep practicing, and you’ll become a predicate pro in no time!

Let’s practice!