In grammar, a subject complement is a predicative expression that follows a linking verb (copula) and that complements (completes) the subject of the sentence by either (1) renaming it or (2) describing it. In the former case, a renaming noun phrase such as a noun or pronoun is called a predicative nominal. An adjective following the copula and describing the subject is called a predicative adjective. In either case the predicative complement in effect mirrors the subject. Subject complements are used with a small class of verbs called linking verbs or copula, of which be is the most common. Since copula are stative verbs, subject complements are not affected by any action of the verb. Subject complements are typically not clause arguments, nor are they clause adjuncts.
Read more about Subject Complement: Examples, Other Languages, Disputed Pronoun Forms
Famous quotes containing the words subject and/or complement:
“In a pure society, the subject of marriage would not be so often avoided,—from shame and not from reverence, winked out of sight, and hinted at only; but treated naturally and simply,—perhaps simply avoided like the kindred mysteries. If it cannot be spoken of for shame, how can it be acted of? But, doubtless, there is far more purity, as well as more impurity, than is apparent.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“A healthy man, indeed, is the complement of the seasons, and in winter, summer is in his heart.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)