Introduction
In English grammar, complements are words, phrases, or clauses that are necessary to complete the meaning of a given expression. Complements can provide detailed information about subjects or objects within a sentence, enhancing overall communication clarity and effectiveness. This guide will delve into the various types of complements, their functions, and their importance in constructing coherent and complete sentences.
Definition of Complements
A complement is a grammatical unit that completes the meaning of a predicate or a noun. Unlike modifiers, which describe or modify, complements are essential to the structure of the sentence as they provide complete sense to a statement.
Types of Complements
- Subject Complements:
- These complements provide information about the subject and follow linking verbs (be, seem, become, etc.). Subject complements can be either noun phrases (predicate nominatives) or adjective phrases (predicate adjectives).
- Examples:
- “He is a doctor.” (noun phrase as a subject complement)
- “She seems happy.” (adjective phrase as a subject complement)
- Object Complements:
- These complements provide more information about the direct or indirect object of a sentence and usually follow the object.
- Examples:
- “They elected him president.” (noun phrase as an object complement)
- “She painted the house red.” (adjective phrase as an object complement)
- Adverbial Complements:
- These are necessary adverbial elements that complete the meaning of the verb, adjective, or another adverb.
- Examples:
- “We went into the house.” (prepositional phrase as an adverbial complement)
- “Put your clothes on.” (phrasal verb requiring an adverbial complement)
Functions of Complements
- Completing Verb Meaning: Many verbs require specific elements to complete their meaning, known as obligatory complements. For example, “consider” requires an object and an object complement: “They consider the plan feasible.”
- Naming the Subject or Object: Complements can name or rename the subject or object, providing clarity or additional details about them.
- Describing States or Changes: Linking verbs often use complements to describe the state or change of the subject.
Positioning of Complements
- Subject Complements: Appear after linking verbs.
- Object Complements: Follow direct or indirect objects.
- Adverbial Complements: Typically follow the verb or verb phrase they complement.
Common Mistakes with Complements
- Confusing Complements with Modifiers: Unlike modifiers that add non-essential information, complements are crucial for sentence completeness.
- Omitting Necessary Complements: Failing to include necessary complements can lead to incomplete sentences that confuse the reader.
- Incorrect Complement Type: Using the wrong type of complement can alter the meaning of a sentence or make it grammatically incorrect.
Exercises for Practice
- Identify the complements in the sentence: “The jury found the defendant guilty.”
- Choose the correct complement to complete the sentence: “Everyone felt ___.” (Options: exhausted, an exhaustion)
- Rewrite the sentence using a different type of complement: “The lake was beautiful.”
Advanced Usage
- Complements in Professional Writing: In formal writing, using the correct type of complement can convey a precise meaning and present information effectively.
- Complements in Literature: Authors may use complements creatively to enhance descriptions or develop characters.
Conclusion
Understanding and correctly using complements is vital for mastering English grammar. Complements ensure that sentences are complete and meaningful, facilitating clear and effective communication. Whether in everyday conversation, professional writing, or creative literature, effective use of complements enhances the clarity and depth of language expression. Regular practice with identifying and employing different types of complements will significantly improve both writing and comprehension skills in English.