LESSON XXXV.
Reading edition
Point out each verb that is used by itself to make a complete statement, and each verb that is not used by itself to make a complete statement:—
1.The boy sleeps.
2.My task is done.
3.This rose smells sweet.
4.The girls are cold.
When a verb by itself makes a complete statement, it is called a verb of complete predication; as, Birds fly.
When a verb by itself does not make a complete statement, it is called a verb of incomplete predication; as, This man is a merchant.
EXERCISE.
Select the verbs of incomplete predication, and state the word or words that complete the predication:—
1.This water is warm.
2.He became a sailor.
3.My brother studies in the evening.
4.This man has been sick for a month.
5.Some murmur when their sky is clear.—French.
6.A soft answer turneth away wrath.—Bible.
7.An idler is a watch that wants both hands.—Cowper.
8.Sweet was the sound, when oft, at evening’s close,
Up yonder hill the village murmur rose.—Goldsmith.