Predicate Adjectives

What Are Predicate Adjectives? (with Examples)

A predicate adjective is an adjective that follows a linking verb and modifies (i.e., refers back to) the subject of the linking verb.

A predicate adjective contrasts with an attributive adjective, which typically sits immediately before the noun it modifies.

For example:

Examples of Predicate Adjectives

Below are some examples of predicate adjectives. In these examples, the predicate adjective is shaded and the subject being modified is in bold.

• Lee seems drunk.
(The linking verb is seems.)
• Everything is funny as long as it is happening to somebody else.
(The linking verb is is.)
• If you look good, you don't need a purpose in life.
(The linking verb is look.)
• What can you say about a society which says that God is dead, and Elvis is alive?
(In both cases, the linking verb is is.)

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