What Is A Simple Predicate?

In English grammar, understanding the different parts of a sentence is essential for clear and effective writing. One of the key components of sentence structure is the predicate, which tells us what the subject of the sentence does or is. More specifically, the simple predicate is the verb or verb phrase that explains the action or state of being of the subject.

In this article, we will explore what a simple predicate is, how it differs from other parts of the predicate, and how to identify it in a sentence. We will also provide examples and helpful tips for mastering this important grammatical concept.

The simple predicate is the main verb or verb phrase in a sentence that tells us what the subject is doing or what condition the subject is in. Essentially, the simple predicate is the word or group of words that expresses the action or state of being of the subject.

Key Points:

The simple predicate is always a verb or a verb phrase.
It tells us what the subject does, is, has, or feels.
The simple predicate can be just a single verb (e.g., “run”) or a verb phrase made up of a main verb and one or more helping verbs (e.g., “has been running”).

Example:

She runs every morning.
The subject is “she,” and the simple predicate is the verb “runs,” which tells us what she does.

How Does the Simple Predicate Differ from the Complete Predicate?

While the simple predicate is only the verb or verb phrase, the complete predicate includes the verb and all the words that give more information about what the subject is doing. In other words, the complete predicate consists of the simple predicate and any additional details, such as objects, modifiers, or complements.

Example:

The dog barked loudly at the cat.
The simple predicate is “barked” (the action the subject is performing).

The complete predicate is “barked loudly at the cat” (the verb and all the words that describe how and at whom the dog barked).

In this case, the simple predicate is just the verb “barked,” while the complete predicate gives us the full picture of what the dog did.

How to Identify the Simple Predicate in a Sentence

To identify the simple predicate in a sentence, follow these steps:

1. Find the Subject

First, locate the subject of the sentence. The subject is who or what the sentence is about. It is usually a noun or pronoun.

Example:

The teacher explains the lesson.

In this sentence, “the teacher” is the subject.

2. Look for the Verb

Once you’ve identified the subject, look for the verb or verb phrase that tells what the subject is doing or what condition the subject is in. This is the simple predicate.

Example:

The teacher explains the lesson.

In this example, “explains” is the verb that tells us what the teacher is doing, so it is the simple predicate.

3. Ignore Extra Information

The simple predicate is just the verb or verb phrase. Any words that provide additional information about the action, such as objects, adverbs, or prepositional phrases, are not part of the simple predicate. These belong to the complete predicate.

Example:

The students are studying for their exam.
The subject is “the students.”

The simple predicate is “are studying” (the verb phrase).
“For their exam” is extra information that is part of the complete predicate but not the simple predicate.

Simple Predicate in Verb Phrases

A verb phrase is made up of a main verb along with one or more helping verbs (also called auxiliary verbs). Together, they form the simple predicate.

Common Helping Verbs:

is, am, are, was, were
has, have, had
will, shall

can, could
may, might, must

Example of Verb Phrases as Simple Predicates:

She has been waiting for an hour.

The subject is “she.”
The simple predicate is “has been waiting” (verb phrase).

In this example, “has been waiting” is a verb phrase made up of the helping verbs “has” and “been” and the main verb “waiting.” Together, they form the simple predicate.

Examples of Simple Predicates in Sentences

Here are some more examples of simple predicates in sentences:

1. With a Single Verb:

The cat sleeps on the couch.
Subject: “The cat”

Simple predicate: “sleeps”

2. With a Verb Phrase:

They are playing soccer in the park.
Subject: “They”

Simple predicate: “are playing”

3. In a Sentence with a Linking Verb:

He is a talented musician.
Subject: “He”

Simple predicate: “is” (linking verb)

4. With Helping Verbs:

I will finish my homework later.
Subject: “I”

Simple predicate: “will finish” (helping verb + main verb)

5. With a Modal Verb:

She can swim very well.
Subject: “She”

Simple predicate: “can swim” (modal verb + main verb)

Why Is Understanding the Simple Predicate Important?

Understanding and identifying the simple predicate is essential for several reasons:

1. Foundation for Sentence Structure

The simple predicate is a crucial part of sentence structure. Knowing how to identify it helps students build a strong foundation in grammar and understand how sentences are constructed.

2. Improved Writing Skills

Recognizing the simple predicate helps writers create clear and concise sentences. It ensures that the subject and verb are present and that the sentence conveys complete thoughts.

3. Better Reading Comprehension

When students can identify the simple predicate, they can more easily understand the actions or states of being in a sentence. This improves overall reading comprehension and helps students analyze texts more effectively.

4. Grammar Mastery

Mastering the concept of simple predicates is the first step toward understanding more complex grammatical ideas, such as compound predicates, passive voice, and verb tenses.

Conclusion

The simple predicate is the key element of a sentence that expresses what the subject does or is. It can be a single verb or a verb phrase, and it is crucial for forming complete and meaningful sentences. By learning how to identify the simple predicate, students can improve their understanding of sentence structure, enhance their writing skills, and deepen their reading comprehension.

Understanding the distinction between the simple predicate and the complete predicate is an important step in mastering English grammar. Whether you are a student, teacher, or writer, mastering the concept of the simple predicate will help you construct clearer, more effective sentences.

What Is A Simple Predicate?