Predicates and Arguments

Semantic analysis of sentences into predicates and arguments

Note: Many of the sentences in this section are taken from or based on examples in Hornby, A.S. (1975) Guide to Patterns and Usage in English. Second Edition. Cornelsen & Oxford University Press.

Sample problem and solution:

They called the doctor. x = They
y = the doctor
z = -

Fill in the gaps!

Example: You surprised them.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: We went to Wales.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: The plane landed.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: Steven met my most favorite teacher.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: She said that it would rain.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: Many of his friends consider Joe somewhat arrogant.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: We need to talk to Lilly about her behavior.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: The plane landed.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: I talked to her.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: We gave Lilly a bike.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =

Fill in the gaps!

Example: Someone pushed Lilly into the flowers.

Predicate:

x =

y =

z =