Definition

In linguistics, it refers to the part of a sentence that provides new information about the topic, often contrasting with the theme.

Example

In the sentence 'The cat is sleeping on the mat', 'is sleeping on the mat' is the rheme, as it gives new information about the cat.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term rheme in linguistics?

Yeah, I think it refers to the part of a sentence that provides new information.

Exactly! I find it fascinating how it changes the meaning of a sentence.

Me too! It's interesting how language works in such subtle ways.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rheme comes from the Greek word "rhema" (ῥῆμα), meaning a word or that which is said. In linguistics, it refers to the part of a sentence that provides information about the subject, often the predicate. Thus, 'rheme' signifies the component of a sentence that conveys the main information or assertion.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rhema' as a word that means 'what is said' — this helps you remember that 'rheme' refers to the part of a sentence that delivers the main information.

Visually Confused Words