Complements are one of the five major elements of clause structure. The other four are subject, verb, object and adjunct (complements are in bold):
Both the brothers becamedoctors.
A:Have you seen my umbrella?
B:It’sdownstairs,by the back door.
Playing the guitar always makes mehappy.
Subject and object complements
In clauses with linking verbs (be, seem, become), complements which follow the verb and which add information about the subject are called subject complements:
Sheila isa nurse.(adding information about Sheila)
All of them seemedsurprised.
Complements which add more information about an object are called object complements:
He makesme very angry.(adding information about me)
See also:
Subject complements
Linking verbs
Complements and adjuncts
Complements and adjuncts are different. A complement is necessary in order to complete the meaning. An adjunct is not necessary, and adds extra information.
| putmust have a complement to saywheresomething is put. Without the complement, the clause would not be complete. |
| in the springis an adjunct. It is not essential to complete the verb ‘go away’; it adds extra information. |
See also:
Noun phrases: postmodifiers
Noun phrases
Adjective phrases
Prepositional phrases