predicate

  • The predicate is the part with a verb phrase stating something about the subject.
  • A predicative complement can be an adjective phrase, unlike objects.

EVEN + comparative adjective

In this post, we explore ‘even + comparative’ which is used to emphasize qualities. In the English Grammar Profile, B1 point 40 in ADJECTIVES is defined as: ‘even’ to modify and intensify comparative adjectives used predicatively after a verb, usually ‘be’ and ‘get’. We did an iWeb search for even _JJ and highlighted the A2 comparative adjectives:

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BE + adjective (increasing range)

This post explores the usage of adjectives in the English language, particularly when used predicatively after ‘be’. It delves into the nuances of using ‘weren’t’, a construction that appears to be more complex than A1 level. The post also presents a comprehensive list of common adjectives used in this manner, such as ‘sure’, ‘available’, ‘free’, ‘full’, ‘simple’, ‘perfect’, ‘complete’, ‘true’, ‘clear’, ‘amazing’, ‘interested’, ‘useful’, ‘correct’, ‘surprised’, ‘careful’, and ‘afraid’. These adjectives are ranked by frequency of usage in the iWeb corpus. The post provides numerous examples and context for each adjective, making it a valuable resource for English language learners at all levels.

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BE + *WN word ending

After ‘BE’, a word ending with ‘wn’ is usually past participle. Some exceptions are ‘known’ (where it might be an adjective) ‘down’, ‘brown’, ‘well-known’ and ‘unknown’. 1 IS KNOWN  377649 Unfortunately, that is what is known as a conflict of interest. listen 2 ARE KNOWN  143646 3 IS (VBZ) SHOWN (VVN) 130843 4 BEEN SHOWN 110513 It has not been shown to the court‘s satisfaction  that these particular Africans fit that description.

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