Predykatywu

Predykatywu, in Polish grammar commonly referred to as predykatowy or predykatyw, denotes a class of words that can function as a predicative in a sentence. The term derives from predykat (predicate) with the adjectival suffix -yw and is used to describe elements that complete the meaning of a copular or linking verb, expressing a property, identity, or classification of the subject.

In practice, predykatywy include several word classes. Adjectives used predicatively describe a subject within the predicate, for example in sentences with a linking verb such as być (to be): "On jest wysokim mężczyzną" or "Ona jest piękna." Nouns or pronouns used predicatively (predicative nominals) name or identify the subject, often appearing in instrumental case after verbs like być, zostać, stać się: "On jest lekarzem." Participles can also function predicatively, providing a verbal-style description within the predicate. The exact case and form of the predicative element depend on its word class and syntactic role.

The distinction between predykatyw and other predicate components is primarily syntactic. Predykatywy contrast with attributive modifiers that function inside the noun phrase rather than as part of the predicate. The use and analysis of predykatywy vary among grammars; some treat predicative adjectives, predicative nouns, and predicative participles as subtypes of a broader predicative category, while others separate them into more narrowly defined groups.

Cross-linguistically, the concept exists in many languages under terms such as predicative adjectives or predicative nouns, reflecting similar functions of words that complete or characterize the subject through a linking verb.

See also: predication, copula, predicative adjective, predicative noun.