Page 42 - English Grammar - 7

Let’s Learn Verbs of Incomplete Predication

An intransitive verb does not require an object to make complete sense. However, there are
some intransitive verbs that need a word or a phrase to make complete sense. These verbs
are called verbs of incomplete predication.
In the sentences given below, the highlighted intransitive verbs express a complete
thought. For example:

The boy jumps. I believe.
O O
The lion roars. The bird flies.
O O
These are verbs of complete predication.

In the sentences given below, the highlighted intransitive verbs do not express a complete
thought. For example:
It seemed. He is.
O O
The sky became. They are.
O O
Now, one or more words are added to each of the above sentences to make a complete
sense. For example:

It seemed to be a good plan. He is coming today.
O O
The sky became dark. They are going home.
O O
Here, the words added to complete the meaning of a verb of incomplete predication
are called its complement. The words used to describe the subject are called the subject
complement. The words used to describe the object are called the object complement.

Practice Time 4

A. Complete the sentences given below with the appropriate complement of verbs given in the
box.

happy pale surgeon lovely sleepy

1. She grew _______________ with fright.
2. The child seemed _______________ playing by itself.
3. I am _______________ . I’ll go to bed early.
4. Dr Trehan is a _______________ .

5. You look _______________ in that new haircut.
B. Underline the complements in these sentences and state whether they are subject or object.
Verbs 1. We painted the ceiling blue. _______________

_______________
2. Sneha is extremely intelligent.

_______________
4. Sanju is a good dancer.
3. I found the girl sweet. _______________
5. Our neighbour’s dog is dangerous. _______________
6. Ginger’s hair dye turned the water pink. _______________
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