0
Malcolm101 Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

Complete Subject

I have underlined the complete subject in the following sentences. Could someone tell me whether I have got it right?

1. Collecting marbles for the next game, Roger mulled over his plan.

The simple subject in this sentence is the head noun "Roger". The participial phrase "Collecting marbles for the next game", I feel, modifies the subject; therefore, "collecting marbles for the next game, Roger" becomes a complete subject in this sentence.

2. All along they had been fishing in the wrong spot.

In this sentence, "they" is the simple subject. The other elements that come together with it are called modifiers. Therefore, I feel, "All along they" is the complete subject.

Am I right?
  

Top answer

"collecting marbles for the next game, Roger" and "All along they" are not proper phrases. I don't see how they can be termed the subjects of these sentences. "All along" is adverbial.

— GPY

  • "collecting marbles for the next game, Roger" and "All along they" are not proper phrases.
  • I don't see how they can be termed the subjects of these sentences.
  • "All along" is adverbial.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

2 Answers
0
"collecting marbles for the next game, Roger" and "All along they" are not proper phrases. I don't see how they can be termed the subjects of these sentences.

"All along" is adverbial.
0
0
Collecting marbles for the next game, Roger mulled over his plan.

I see the first part as adverbial.
It's like
While collecting marbles for the next game, Roger mulled over his plan.

Clive
0

Related Questions