If the verb in a sentence is a linking verb instead of an action verb, then it cannot take a direct object.
Definition: A subject complement is the word after the linking verb that renames or describes the subject. It completes (not gives a compliment to) the verb.
Subject complements can be nouns, pronouns, or adjectives. They are called predicate nouns, predicate pronouns (both can also be called predicate nominatives), and predicate adjectives.
Keithis our class president. (predicate noun)
The new substituteishe. (predicate pronoun) All our students areresponsible. (predicate adjective)
Practice What You've Learned
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Use the toolbar above to mark up the sentences. Underline the subject once. Underline the verb twice. Underline the subject complement once (like the subject it completes). Then on the next line, identify the complement you chose as a predicate noun, predicate pronoun, or predicate adjective.
