predicate verb

[PRED-i-kit VERB]
nounpl: predicate verbs
verbo predicativo
1. The main verb in a sentence or clause that expresses the action or state of being of the subject
In the sentence 'She runs every morning,' the word 'runs' is the predicate verb.
Na frase 'Ela corre todos os dias', a palavra 'corre' é o verbo predicativo.
2. A verb that forms the core of the predicate and conveys what the subject does or is
In 'The cat is sleeping,' the predicate verb is 'is sleeping.'
Em 'O gato está dormindo', o verbo predicativo é 'está dormindo'.
This is a foundational grammatical concept taught in both American and Brazilian English/Portuguese education systems. Understanding the predicate verb is essential for sentence analysis and writing instruction in schools across both countries. In Brazil, grammar instruction emphasizes this term as part of traditional sentence diagramming (análise sintática).
Synonyms / Sinônimos
main verbfinite verbconjugated verb
Antonyms / Antônimos
helping verbauxiliary verb

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
verbo predicativo
Standard grammatical term used in Brazilian Portuguese education
Portugal
verbo principal
More commonly referred to as 'verbo principal' (main verb) in European Portuguese
Academic
núcleo do predicado
Sometimes called 'núcleo do predicado' (nucleus of the predicate) in formal linguistic analysis

Related Words

predicatesubjectauxiliary verbverb phraseaction verb

Related Idioms & Phrases

the predicate verb carries the action
identify the predicate verb to understand the sentence structure
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