What is the Subject of a Sentence?

The 8 Forms of Subject in Grammar

The sentence's subject is the person or thing that controls or manipulates the verb. It tells what or who the sentence is about.

1. Nouns

A noun is a person, place, thing, or idea.

Examples:

  • Linda bought ice cream. (Who bought ice cream? Linda)
  • Teachers should attend the meeting. (Who should attend? Teachers)
  • Cars emit smoke. (What emits smoke? Cars)

2. Noun Phrases

A noun phrase consists of a noun plus modifiers like articles or adjectives, acting as one grammatical unit.

Examples:

  • The dog barked out loud. (The dog is the noun phrase)
  • The girl in a red dress is so pretty.
  • A tall man should model this.

3. Noun Clauses

A noun clause is a dependent clause acting as a noun.

Examples:

  • Whichever of these dresses fits me should be size 27.
  • A daughter doing her best is commendable.
  • Whoever seeks reform should stand up.

4. Pronouns

Pronouns are substitutes for nouns used similarly as subjects.

Examples:

  • She walked silently.
  • They were very happy with the gift.
  • It is breathing slowly.

5. Gerunds

Gerunds are verbs ending in -ing that function as nouns.

Examples:

  • Exercising is good for the body.
  • Meditating calms me.
  • Jogging improves cardiovascular fitness.

6. Gerund Phrases

A gerund phrase includes a gerund plus its modifiers or objects.

Examples:

  • Eating fruits is good for your body.
  • Driving inattentively causes accidents.
  • Watching scary movies excites me.
  • Staying in the house bores Steve.

7. Infinitives

Infinitives are verbs preceded by "to" that act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.

Examples:

  • To love is a noble thing.
  • To dream is divine!

8. Infinitive Phrases

An infinitive phrase consists of an infinitive plus modifiers or objects, functioning as a noun.

Examples:

  • To dream big may lead to frustration and courage.
  • To fall into one's arms is the most romantic.
  • To love a beautiful soul can be the best choice.
  • To read novels can improve vocabulary.

Comments