predicate
/ˈpred.ɪ.kət/ IELTSAcademic
noun
In grammar, the part of a sentence that says something about the subject. It usually includes the verb and any words linked to it.
- In 'She is happy,' 'is happy' is the predicate.
- The predicate comes after the subject in this sentence.
verb
To state something as true, especially in formal writing, logic, or academic English. It can sound technical or legal.
- The report predicates the change on new evidence.
- He predicated his argument on three facts.
Adinary Nuance
Predicate is more technical than simple grammar words like 'verb' or 'part of a sentence'. In academic writing, 'predicate' can also mean 'state formally' or 'base something on'. Writers choose it when they want a precise, formal word, not a casual one.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- vị ngữ
- Spanish
- predicado
- Chinese
- 谓语
- Japanese
- 述語
- Korean
- 서술어
Etymology
From Late Latin praedicatum, from Latin praedicare meaning 'declare' or 'proclaim'. The grammar sense became common in English in the 18th century.
Common phrases
the predicate of a sentencepredicate logicpredicate something on somethingpredicate an argument on
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is predicate a grammar word or a general English word?
- It is both. In grammar, it names part of a sentence. In formal English, it means to state or base something on.
- What is the difference between predicate and subject?
- The subject is who or what the sentence is about. The predicate says something about the subject.
- Is predicate common in everyday speech?
- Not very common. People use it more in grammar lessons, academic writing, and formal discussion.
- How do I use predicate in a sentence?
- You can say, 'The sentence predicate follows the subject,' or 'She predicated her claim on data.'