- Chemistry is a useful science.
- Boston is the capital of Massachusetts.
- Jefferson became President.
- This bird is called a flamingo.
- Mr. Hale was appointed secretary.
- Albert has been chosen captain of the crew.
- You are a friend upon whom I can rely.
In most of the examples, the predicate nominative has one or more modifiers. In the first sentence, science is modified by the two adjectives a and useful; in the second, capital is modified by the adjective phrase of Massachusetts; in the last, friend is modified by the adjective clause upon whom I can rely.
For the distinction between the predicate nominative and the direct object, see [§ 102].
490. A noun clause may be used as a predicate nominative ([§ 386]).
- My plan is that the well should be dug to-morrow.
- His intention was that you should remain here.
- The result is that he is bankrupt.
- Ruth’s fear was that the door might be locked.
491. An infinitive may be used as a predicate nominative.
- To hear is to obey.
- My hope was to reach the summit before dark.
- Their plan was to undermine the tower.
- My habit is to rise early.
The infinitive may have a complement or modifiers. In the second and third examples, it takes an object; in the fourth it is modified by an adverb.
4. THE PREDICATE ADJECTIVE
492. An adjective in the predicate belonging to a noun or pronoun in the subject is called a predicate adjective.