What is the function of a predicate nominative?

A predicate nominative is a noun or pronoun that renames the subject of a sentence. It follows a linking verb (such as "be," "seem," "become," "appear," etc.) and is the same grammatical case as the subject.

Here's the key function:

* Clarifies or defines the subject: It provides more information about the subject, explaining what the subject *is*.

Examples:

* Subject: She

* Linking Verb: is

* Predicate Nominative: the doctor.

* Sentence: She is the doctor.

* Function: "The doctor" renames "She" and tells us her profession.

* Subject: The winner

* Linking Verb: was

* Predicate Nominative: he.

* Sentence: The winner was he.

* Function: "He" renames "The winner" and identifies the winner.

Think of it this way:

* The subject is the "topic" of the sentence.

* The predicate nominative is the "label" or "definition" of the subject.

Important Note: A predicate nominative can be a single noun or pronoun, or it can be a noun phrase.