Direct Object or Predicate Complement Exercise (239)
Both objects and complements answer the question "What?" after a verb. The difference is that an object follows an action verb and a complement completes a linking verb. Predicate complements are of two kinds: predicate nominatives (nouns or pronouns) and predicate adjectives. Decide if the words in boldface type in the following sentences are direct objects, predicate nominatives, or predicate adjectives.
Answers and Explanations
1. The archaeologist felt his way cautiously along the tunnel wall.
Correct: direct object
Felt is an action verb; way receives the action of the verb.
2. After the old queen died, her ageing son became king.
Correct: predicate nominative
Became is a linking verb. King is a noun that completes the meaning of became. King is a predicate nominative.
3. Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that turns the wheel.
Correct: direct object
Turns is an action verb; wheel receives the action and is therefore a direct object.
4. The spunky little blonde proved stronger than the vampires.
Correct: predicate adjective
Proved is a linking verb. Stronger completes the meaning of proved and is a predicate adjective.
5. Although his office was intended to be temporary, Coban remained president after the election.
Correct: predicate nominative
Remained is a linking verb; the noun president is a predicate nominative.
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