Definition

Relating to a word or phrase that connects other words or clauses, often used in grammar to describe verbs or conjunctions that link subjects to predicates or coordinate elements.

Example

In the sentence 'She is a teacher', the verb 'is' serves as a copulative verb connecting the subject to the complement.

Conversation

Did you know that in grammar, some verbs are called copulative?

Really? I always thought verbs were just verbs.

Yeah, they actually connect the subject with a complement, which is pretty interesting.

That makes sense! I've never heard the term copulative before.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A word that connects the subject of a sentence with a subject complement, often used to link ideas or describe a state of being.

Example

In the sentence 'She is a teacher', 'is' is a copulative verb that connects the subject to the complement.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a copulative?

Yeah, isn't it a term used in grammar?

Exactly! It refers to words that link the subject to the predicate.

Root Explanation

Copulative → It is formed from "copulatus" (the past participle of "copulare", meaning to join or link) and the suffix "-ive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word "copulative" refers to something that serves to join or link, particularly in grammar where it connects subjects and predicates.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'join' — 'copulatus' means to join, and '-ive' indicates a quality. So, a copulative word is one that has the quality of joining things together.

Visually Confused Words