Predicate

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 407.

In terms of modern linguistics, the predicate is defined as the part of the sentence presented by a finite-form of the verb, if even in its zero-alternant. (elliptical sentences)

Besides the function of predication the predicate also has the linking function, of linking semantically the subject with the right side of the verbal surrounding – the object and the adverbial.

Various criteria of classifying different kind of predicate have been set up by grammarians. The common definition of the predicatein terms of modern linguistics is that it is a more or less complex structure with the verb or verb-phrase at its core.The verb which is always in key position is the heart of the matter and certain qualities of the verb in any language determine important elements in the structural meaning of the predicate. The predicate may be composed of a word, a phrase or an entire clause. When it is a notional word (including analytical forms), it is naturally not only structural but the notional predicate as well. It issimple predicate.

If it is made up of more than one word it is called compound. In terms of complementation, predicates are classified into verbal (time presses, birds fly, the moon rose, etc.) and nominal (is happy, felt strong, got cool, grew old).

The two types of predicates in active syntax may be diagrammed as follows:

A. Verbal Predicate:

Simple: Tastes differ.

Compound: One must do one's duty.

B. Nominal Predicate:

Simple:What a beautiful picture!

Compound: The picture was beautiful. He may be angry with me.

Another type of sentence with a simple nominal predicate is that in which the predicative comes first, the subject next, and no link verb is either used or possible. Such sentences seem to occur chiefly in colloquial style, for instance: "Splendid game, cricket," remarked Mr Barbecue-Smith heartily to no one in particular; "so thoroughly English" This is a sentence with a simple nominal predicate. There is inversion, no article with the predicative noun, and the style is very colloquial. The phrase representing the rheme comes first, and after it comes the word representing the theme.