predicate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈprɛdɪkɪt/
KK: /ˈprɛdɪkɪt/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the part of a sentence that tells something about the subject, often including a verb and any objects or modifiers.
Example
In the sentence 'The cat is sleeping', 'is sleeping' is the predicate.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more predicate
Superlative: most predicate
Conversation
I was reading about how the predicate works in sentences.
Oh really? I always find grammar so confusing.
Yeah, but understanding the predicate can really help clarify things.
That makes sense! I'll have to pay more attention to it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assertive
declarative
propositional
Antonyms
ambiguous
indeterminate
vague
intransitive verb
Definition
To make a statement or claim about something.
Example
In logic, we often predicate our arguments on certain assumptions.
Tense Forms
Past: predicated
Past Participle: predicated
Conversation
Did you hear how she predicated her whole argument on that one fact?
Yeah, it was pretty convincing, actually.
I wonder if she always predicates her points like that.
noun
Definition
In grammar, it is the part of a sentence that tells something about the subject, usually containing a verb and any objects or phrases related to it. In logic, it refers to what is affirmed or denied about the subject in a statement.
Example
In the sentence 'The cat is sleeping on the mat', 'is sleeping on the mat' is the predicate.
Conversation
I was reading about grammar, and I came across the term predicate.
Oh, that's interesting! What does it mean exactly?
It refers to the part of a sentence that tells us what the subject is doing.
transitive verb
Definition
To state or affirm something as a quality or attribute of another thing, often in a logical or grammatical context.
Example
In the sentence 'The sky is blue', 'blue' is the predicate that describes the sky.
Tense Forms
Past: predicated
Past Participle: predicated
Conversation
I was reading about how to predicate an argument effectively.
Oh really? That sounds interesting! What did you find out?
They say it's important to predicate your claims on solid evidence.
Root Explanation
Predicate → It is formed from "praedicare" (meaning to proclaim or declare) and the prefix "pre-" (meaning before). The word refers to something that is declared or asserted about a subject.
Memory Tip
Think of 'declaring' something ('praedicare') about a subject — that's what a predicate does in a sentence.
Visually Confused Words
premedicate
preindicate
appredicate
redictate
unpredicated
subpredicate
reindicate
rededicate