Differences between Predicate and Complement in English

There are many differences between predicative and complement in English. Simple definition, predicative is the part used to explain, explain or supplement the subject, usually after the copula. Complement is used to supplement or perfect the information of predicate, object or other components. The following is a table summarizing their basic knowledge, which can be briefly understood first:

After understanding their basic knowledge, let's look at their specific differences. ( )?

Difference 1: Different definitions.

Predicate is the part used to explain, explain or supplement the subject, usually after the copula. Complement is used to supplement or perfect the information of predicate, object or other components.

Example:

He is a teacher. He is a teacher. "A teacher" is a predicative, indicating the subject "he".

I think this book is very interesting. I think this book is very interesting. -"Interesting" is a complement, which supplements the information of the object "book".

Difference 2: Different positions.

Predicates are usually located after the copula and are used to explain or illustrate the subject. Complement can be located after verb or object to supplement or perfect its information.

Example:

This soup tastes good. This soup tastes good. -"Delicious" is a predicative, explaining the subject "soup".

I think he is honest. I think he is honest. -"Honesty" is a complement, which supplements the information of the object "He".

Difference 3: Dependence is different

Predicate dependent verbs, such as be, seem, look, etc. Complement depends on verbs, objects or other elements that need supplementary information.

Example:

She seems very upset. She looks very upset. -"Uneasy" is a predicative, depending on the copula verb "seems".

I make her happy. I make her happy. -"Happy" is a complement to the information of the object "She".

Difference 4: Different functions

The main function of predicative is to describe or define the subject. The main function of complement is to supplement or perfect the information of predicate, object or other components.

Example:

My brother is a doctor. My brother is a doctor. -"A doctor" is a predicative and defines the subject "My brother".

I want you to understand. I want you to understand. -"Understand" is a complement to supplement the information of the object "you".