Subjective Complement-Meaning, Definition & Examples

A subjective complement is a word or phrase that follows a linking verb and identifies or describes the subject. It can be a noun, pronoun, or adjective that provides additional information about the subject.

Understanding the role of subjective complements is crucial for mastering the nuances of English grammar. These components are essential in constructing clear and meaningful sentences. They help in attributing properties or identities to the subjects, thereby offering a more complete understanding of the sentence’s intent.

What Is a Subjective Complement?

A subjective complement is a word or phrase that follows a linking verb. It describes or renames the subject of a sentence. This part makes the sentence complete and gives more information about the subject.

Types of Subjective Complements

There are two main types:

• Noun: It can be a person, place, thing, or idea.
• Adjective: It describes a noun or pronoun.

Linking Verbs

Linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence to a subjective complement. They do not show action. They show a state of being.

Examples include:

• am
• is
• are
• was
• were
• seem
• become
• feel

Examples of Subjective Complements

Sentence	Subject	Linking Verb	Subjective Complement
The sky is blue.	The sky	is	blue (Adjective)
My friend is a doctor.	My friend	is	a doctor (Noun)
These cookies smell delicious.	These cookies	smell	delicious (Adjective)

Why Are Subjective Complements Important?

They help us to express our ideas completely. They make our sentences clear. They tell us more about the subject. Without them, our sentences might sound incomplete.

How to Identify a Subjective Complement

To identify a subjective complement, look for a linking verb. Then find the word that describes or renames the subject. This word is the subjective complement.

Subject Complements Vs Direct Objects

Understanding the difference between subject complements and direct objects is essential for grasping the nuances of sentence structure. A subject complement provides information about the subject, typically following a linking verb and identifying or describing the subject. For example, in the sentence “The sky is blue,” ‘blue’ is the subject complement that describes ‘the sky.

‘ On the other hand, a direct object receives the action of a transitive verb and answers the question ‘what’ or ‘whom. ‘ Consider the sentence “She painted the canvas. ” Here, ‘the canvas’ is the direct object that is being painted.

These elements are crucial in English grammar as they perform different functions, adding depth and clarity to our communication.

Subject Complements Vs Adverbs

Understanding the distinction between subject complements and adverbs is crucial for mastering sentence structure in English grammar. Subject complements provide more information about the subject by identifying or describing it, typically following a linking verb. Adverbs, on the other hand, modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, providing details about how, when, where, or to what extent an action is performed.

Grasping these differences not only enhances clarity in writing but also aids in crafting more precise and engaging sentences. This insight into the roles of subject compleplements and adverbs can significantly improve both written and spoken communication skills.

Subject Complements Vs Object Complements

Understanding the distinction between subject and object complements is crucial for mastering sentence structure in English grammar. Subject complements are essential because they provide additional information about the subject, typically following a linking verb. They can be either noun phrases that rename the subject or adjective phrases that describe the subject.

On the other hand, object complements give more information about the object of a sentence and are necessary to complete the meaning of some transitive verbs. These complements can also be nouns that rename the object or adjectives that describe the object.

Grasping these concepts enhances clarity and precision in communication, allowing for more effective expression in both written and spoken English.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Subjective Complement?

A subjective complement is a grammatical component that follows a linking verb and modifies or refers to the subject of the sentence. It can be a noun, pronoun, or adjective providing additional information about the subject.

How Does A Subjective Complement Function?

A subjective complement completes the meaning of the subject by either renaming it (as a predicate nominative) or describing it (as a predicate adjective) after a linking verb.

Can Adjectives Be Subjective Complements?

Yes, adjectives can serve as subjective complements, typically following a linking verb and describing the subject of the sentence.

Are Pronouns Used As Subjective Complements?

Pronouns can be used as subjective complements when they follow a linking verb and identify the subject.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of a subjective complement enhances your grasp of English grammar. It clarifies sentence structures and improves communication. Remember, whether it’s a noun, pronoun, or adjective, the subjective complement is key to a complete thought. Keep practicing, and you’ll master this essential linguistic concept in no time.