Synonym of Predicate: Detailed Guide, Examples, and Usage Rules

In English grammar, the “synonym of predicate” is a fascinating and practical concept that goes far beyond simply swapping out one verb for another. It involves finding alternative ways to express the same core action, event, or state in a sentence—whether by using different verbs, changing sentence structure, or even rephrasing the entire predicate. Understanding predicate synonyms (also called predicate equivalents, alternative predicates, or paraphrased predicate structures) is crucial for anyone who wants to write with clarity, variety, and sophistication.

Mastering predicate synonyms helps writers and speakers avoid repetition, clarify meaning, and adapt their language to various styles and audiences. This skill is essential in academic writing to avoid plagiarism by paraphrasing, in professional communication for precision, and in creative writing for stylistic richness.

This comprehensive guide is designed for English learners at all levels, teachers, writers, editors, and linguists. We will explore definitions, structural patterns, types, rules, examples, common mistakes, practice exercises, advanced topics, and frequently asked questions—giving you a robust toolkit for working with predicate synonyms in every context.

3. Definition Section
4. Structural Breakdown
5. Types or Categories
6. Examples Section
7. Usage Rules
8. Common Mistakes
9. Practice Exercises
10. Advanced Topics
11. FAQ Section
12. Conclusion

3. Definition Section

3.1. What Is a Predicate?

In English grammar, a predicate is the part of a sentence or clause that tells us what the subject does or is. The predicate typically contains the main verb and may include objects, complements, and adverbials. In other words, the predicate provides information about the subject.

Every complete sentence is made up of two main components:

Subject: who or what the sentence is about.
Predicate: what the subject does, or what happens to the subject.

Sentence	Subject	Predicate
John runs every morning.	John	runs every morning
The dog barked loudly.	The dog	barked loudly
She is a doctor.	She	is a doctor
They have finished their work.	They	have finished their work

3.2. What Is a Synonym of Predicate?

A synonym of predicate (also called a predicate equivalent, alternative predicate, or paraphrased predicate) is a different grammatical structure that expresses the same or a very similar meaning as a given predicate. This can mean:

Using a different verb or verb phrase with the same meaning.
Changing sentence structure (e.g., active to passive voice).
Rephrasing the predicate while preserving the core message.

Note: Predicate synonyms operate at the phrase or clause level, not just the word level.

Word-level synonym: run ↔ jog
Predicate-level synonym: He finished the project. ↔ The project was completed by him.

3.3. Grammatical Classification

Predicate synonyms are part of both syntax (sentence structure) and semantics (meaning). They function within clauses or sentences to express the same idea in different ways. This can involve:

Changing verb forms
Altering voice (active ↔ passive)
Using nominalizations (turning verbs into nouns) or verbalizations (turning nouns into verbs)
Employing paraphrasing and idiomatic expressions

3.4. Function and Usage Contexts

Predicate synonyms are used for various communicative purposes:

Restating or paraphrasing information
Avoiding repetitive language
Enhancing stylistic variety and sophistication
Clarifying or simplifying complex ideas

They are particularly useful in:

Academic and scientific writing (to paraphrase sources)
Professional contexts (to clarify or vary expression)
Creative writing (for style and voice)
Everyday communication (for naturalness and precision)

4. Structural Breakdown

4.1. Elements of a Predicate

A predicate can be simple (just the main verb) or complex (verb + objects/complements/adverbials). The key elements include:

Main verb: the core action or state.
Object: the receiver of the action (if any).
Complement: word(s) that complete the meaning (e.g., “She is a teacher“).
Adverbial: information about how, when, where (e.g., “He works quickly“).

Sentence	Main Verb	Object	Complement	Adverbial
She drives a car to work every day.	drives	a car	–	to work every day
They are happy.	are	–	happy	–
The team won the match yesterday.	won	the match	–	yesterday
He became a doctor.	became	–	a doctor	–

4.2. Structural Patterns of Predicate Synonyms

There are several common ways to create predicate synonyms:

4.2.1. Verb Synonym Substitution

Replacing the main verb with a direct synonym without changing the rest of the sentence.
Example: She helped me. ↔ She assisted me.

4.2.2. Voice Change (Active ↔ Passive)

Switching from active to passive voice or vice versa.
Example: The chef cooked the meal. ↔ The meal was cooked by the chef.

4.2.3. Nominalization and Verbalization

Changing a verb into a noun (nominalization) or a noun into a verb (verbalization).
Example: He decided to leave. ↔ He made a decision to leave.

4.2.4. Causative Constructions

Using causative verbs like “make,” “have,” or “get.”
Example: He repaired the car. ↔ He had the car repaired.

4.2.5. Use of Phrasal Verbs vs. Single Verbs

Swapping a single verb for a phrasal verb or vice versa.
Example: She postponed the meeting. ↔ She put off the meeting.

4.2.6. Negative and Affirmative Predicate Equivalents

Expressing the same meaning in positive or negative form.
Example: He forgot to call. ↔ He did not remember to call.

Original Predicate	Alternative Pattern	Predicate Synonym
She finished the job.	Verb Synonym	She completed the job.
The team won the game.	Voice Change	The game was won by the team.
He decided to leave.	Nominalization	He made a decision to leave.
She postponed the meeting.	Phrasal Verb	She put off the meeting.
He forgot to call.	Negative Equivalent	He did not remember to call.

4.3. Rules for Paraphrasing Predicates

Identify the core meaning of the predicate (action/state/relationship).
Choose an equivalent structure (verb synonym, passive form, nominalization, etc.).
Adjust tense, voice, and agreement to fit the new structure.
Check for register and nuance (is it formal/informal? Does it fit the context?).
Review for accuracy and clarity to ensure the rewritten predicate preserves the intended meaning.

5. Types or Categories

5.1. Lexical Predicate Synonyms

Direct substitution of verbs or verb phrases with similar meaning.
Examples: “run” ↔ “jog”; “assist” ↔ “help”; “purchase” ↔ “buy”

5.2. Syntactic Predicate Synonyms

Changing sentence structure while keeping the meaning.
Examples: “He gave her a book.” ↔ “She was given a book by him.”

5.3. Semantic Predicate Synonyms

Different expressions with equivalent meaning in a specific context.
Examples: “He passed away.” ↔ “He died.”

5.4. Idiomatic Predicate Synonyms

Paraphrasing idiomatic expressions into more literal or alternative idioms.
Examples: “Kick the bucket.” ↔ “Die.”; “Let the cat out of the bag.” ↔ “Reveal a secret.”

5.5. Formal vs. Informal Predicate Synonyms

Predicate synonyms based on register (level of formality).
Examples: “Commence” (formal) ↔ “Start” (informal); “Terminate” ↔ “End”

5.6. Predicate Synonyms in Conditional and Modal Forms

Alternative ways to express possibility, probability, or necessity.
Examples: “He may arrive.” ↔ “He might come.”; “She must leave.” ↔ “She has to go.”

6. Examples Section

6.1. Simple Predicate Synonym Examples

She helped me. ↔ She assisted me.
He bought a car. ↔ He purchased a car.
The dog barked. ↔ The dog made a noise.
They left early. ↔ They departed early.
She started the engine. ↔ She turned on the engine.
He found the answer. ↔ He discovered the answer.
We finished the project. ↔ We completed the project.
I asked a question. ↔ I posed a question.
The baby cried. ↔ The baby wailed.
He fixed the computer. ↔ He repaired the computer.
She read the book. ↔ She went through the book.
I forgot my keys. ↔ I left my keys behind.

6.2. Complex Predicate Synonym Examples

He explained the problem to the class. ↔ He gave the class an explanation of the problem.
The committee decided to postpone the meeting. ↔ The meeting was postponed by the committee.
She was awarded the prize for her discovery. ↔ She received the prize for her discovery.
They failed to reach an agreement. ↔ They could not come to an agreement.
The government implemented new regulations. ↔ New regulations were put in place by the government.
After she finished her homework, she watched television. ↔ She watched television after completing her homework.
He managed to solve the puzzle. ↔ He succeeded in solving the puzzle.
The company will announce the results tomorrow. ↔ The results will be announced by the company tomorrow.
She admitted that she was wrong. ↔ She confessed her mistake.
They continued working despite the noise. ↔ They kept on working even though it was noisy.

6.3. Predicate Synonyms by Structure

**Table 1: Active vs. Passive Predicate Synonyms**
Active Voice	Passive Voice
He sent the email.	The email was sent by him.
They built the bridge.	The bridge was built by them.
She made a cake.	A cake was made by her.
We solved the problem.	The problem was solved by us.

**Table 2: Modal Verb Predicate Synonyms**
Original Predicate	Predicate Synonym
He can swim.	He is able to swim.
She must leave.	She has to go.
They might come.	They may arrive.
You should call him.	It is advisable to call him.

**Table 3: Nominalization/Verbalization Predicate Synonyms**
Verb Predicate	Nominalized Predicate
She decided to leave.	She made a decision to leave.
He explained the situation.	He gave an explanation of the situation.
We discussed the plan.	We had a discussion about the plan.
They agreed to help.	They reached an agreement to help.

**Table 4: Idiomatic Predicate Equivalents**
Idiomatic Expression	Literal Predicate Synonym
He kicked the bucket.	He died.
She let the cat out of the bag.	She revealed the secret.
They called it a day.	They stopped working for the day.
He hit the books.	He started studying.

**Table 5: Formal vs. Informal Predicate Synonyms**
Formal Predicate	Informal Predicate
He commenced speaking.	He started talking.
They terminated the agreement.	They ended the deal.
She assisted her friend.	She helped her friend.
We postponed the meeting.	We put off the meeting.

6.4. Contextual Examples

Original: The results were disseminated to the staff.
Synonym (Informal): The results were shared with the staff.
Original: The student fabricated the data.
Synonym (Neutral): The student made up the data.
Original: She submitted her resignation.
Synonym (Informal): She quit her job.
Original: The company expanded its operations.
Synonym (More Precise): The company opened new branches.
Original: He encountered difficulties.
Synonym (Informal): He ran into problems.

6.5. Predicate Synonyms in Different Tenses

She finishes her work. ↔ She completes her work. (Present Simple)
He was watching TV. ↔ He watched TV. (Past Continuous ↔ Past Simple)
They had already left. ↔ They were already gone. (Past Perfect ↔ Past Simple Passive)
I will call you. ↔ I am going to call you. (Future Simple ↔ “be going to”)
She has written a letter. ↔ She has penned a letter. (Present Perfect)

6.6. Predicate Synonyms in Questions and Negatives

Question: Did you see the movie? ↔ Did you watch the movie?
Negative: He didn’t accept the invitation. ↔ He didn’t take the invitation.
Negative: She didn’t remember my name. ↔ She forgot my name.
Question: Have you read the article? ↔ Have you gone through the article?
Negative: They didn’t start on time. ↔ They didn’t commence on time.

6.7. Predicate Synonyms in Reported Speech

Direct: She said, “I will help you.”
Indirect: She promised that she would assist me.
Direct: He said, “I am tired.”
Indirect: He stated that he was exhausted.
Direct: “We have finished,” they said.
Indirect: They mentioned that they had completed.
Direct: “I don’t know the answer,” she said.
Indirect: She admitted that she didn’t have the answer.
Direct: “I lost my keys,” he said.
Indirect: He explained that he had misplaced his keys.

7. Usage Rules

7.1. General Guidelines for Using Predicate Synonyms

Use predicate synonyms to avoid repetition, clarify meaning, or fit the style of your writing.
Check that the new predicate has the same core meaning as the original.
Be mindful of the context and audience when choosing a synonym.

7.2. Agreement and Consistency

Maintain subject-verb agreement.
Ensure tense, aspect, and voice are consistent with the original meaning.

7.3. Register and Appropriateness

Choose a predicate synonym that matches the formality of your sentence.
Use formal synonyms in academic or professional writing; informal ones in casual contexts.

7.4. Collocation and Naturalness

Make sure the predicate fits naturally with the subject and object.
Some verbs only work with certain nouns (collocations).

7.5. Semantic Nuance and Precision

Predicate synonyms can have slightly different connotations or strengths.
Avoid using a synonym that changes the intended meaning.

7.6. Exceptions and Special Cases

Some idioms or phrasal verbs do not have direct synonyms.
Fixed phrases may lose meaning if altered incorrectly.

7.7. Regional and Dialectal Variations

US and UK English sometimes use different predicate synonyms.
Example: “He got a job.” (US/UK) vs. “He landed a job.” (US, informal)

**Common Predicate Synonym Errors and Corrections**
Incorrect Usage	Correct Usage	Explanation
He resigned the company.	He left the company.	“Resign” requires “from”: “He resigned from the company.”
She made a homework.	She did her homework.	Collocation: “do homework” is correct.
I suggested him to go.	I suggested that he go.	“Suggest” does not take a direct object + infinitive.
He discussed about the plan.	He discussed the plan.	No “about” with “discuss.”

8. Common Mistakes

8.1. Incorrect Synonym Selection

Using a near-synonym that changes the meaning or is not idiomatic.
Incorrect: He resigned the company.
Correct: He left the company. (Or: He resigned from the company.)

8.2. Wrong Register or Formality

Using an overly formal or informal synonym for the context.
Incorrect (in a casual conversation): She commenced the task.
Correct: She started the task.

8.3. Collocation Errors

Pairing verbs and objects that do not naturally go together.
Incorrect: He did a party.
Correct: He had a party.

8.4. Grammatical Inconsistencies

Mismatch in tense, number, or agreement after synonym substitution.
Incorrect: She were promoted.
Correct: She was promoted.

8.5. Ambiguity or Unintended Meaning

Substituting a predicate synonym that introduces vagueness or confusion.
Incorrect: He made the meeting.
Correct: He held the meeting. (“Made” could mean “created” or “attended.”)

8.6. Overuse or Redundancy

Repeating synonyms unnecessarily, making writing wordy or awkward.
Incorrect: She started and commenced her speech.
Correct: She started her speech.

**Incorrect vs. Correct Predicate Synonym Usage**
Incorrect Example	Correct Example	Error Type
He resigned the company.	He left the company.	Wrong collocation
She did a party.	She had a party.	Wrong collocation
I suggested him to go.	I suggested that he go.	Grammar
He discussed about the plan.	He discussed the plan.	Grammar
She commenced the task. (informal)	She started the task.	Register
He made the homework.	He did the homework.	Collocation
They didn’t commence on time.	They didn’t start on time.	Register
She were promoted.	She was promoted.	Agreement
He made the meeting.	He held the meeting.	Ambiguity
She started and commenced her speech.	She started her speech.	Redundancy

9. Practice Exercises

Instructions: Try the following exercises to test your understanding of predicate synonyms. The answer key follows each set.

9.1. Fill-in-the-Blank Exercises

She _____ (began/commenced) her presentation at 10 a.m.
He _____ (departed/left) the office early yesterday.
The company _____ (put off/postponed) the meeting.
The team _____ (won/was victorious in) the match.
She _____ (assisted/helped) her friend with the move.
The data was _____ (fabricated/made up) by the researcher.
He _____ (revealed/let out) the secret.
They _____ (continued/kept on) working despite the noise.
She _____ (confessed/admitted) her mistake.
The bridge was _____ (built/constructed) by a famous architect.

Answer Key (9.1)

began / commenced
departed / left
put off / postponed
won / was victorious in
assisted / helped
fabricated / made up
revealed / let out
continued / kept on
confessed / admitted
built / constructed

9.2. Correction Exercises

He did a party for his birthday.
She resigned the company last week.
I suggested him to see a doctor.
They discussed about the new policy.
He commenced the speech. (in a casual conversation)
She were given a promotion.
He made the homework quickly.
They didn’t commence on time.
She started and commenced her project.
He made the meeting last Friday.

Answer Key (9.2)

He had a party for his birthday.
She left the company last week. / She resigned from the company last week.
I suggested that he see a doctor.
They discussed the new policy.
She started the speech.
She was given a promotion.
He did the homework quickly.
They didn’t start on time.
She started her project.
He held the meeting last Friday.

9.3. Identification Exercises

Underline the predicate and provide a predicate synonym.

Mary wrote a letter.
The cat chased the mouse.
They arrived late.
He made a decision.
The team won the championship.
She let the cat out of the bag.
We discussed the problem.
The bridge was built by them.
He failed the exam.
She started the project.

Answer Key (9.3)

wrote a letter → composed a letter
chased the mouse → ran after the mouse
arrived late → came late
made a decision → decided
won the championship → was victorious in the championship
let the cat out of the bag → revealed the secret
discussed the problem → talked about the problem
was built by them → they built
failed the exam → did not pass the exam
started the project → commenced the project

9.4. Sentence Construction

Rewrite each sentence using a different predicate synonym.

He postponed the meeting.
She began the test.
They reached an agreement.
The professor explained the theory.
The police arrested the suspect.
He died last year.
They helped the victims.
She quit her job.
We discussed the project.
The company employed new staff.

Answer Key (9.4)

He put off the meeting.
She commenced the test.
They came to an agreement.
The professor gave an explanation of the theory.
The suspect was taken into custody by the police.
He passed away last year.
They assisted the victims.
She submitted her resignation.
We had a discussion about the project.
The company hired new staff.

9.5. Contextual Paraphrasing

Paraphrase each paragraph using predicate synonyms.

Original: The manager decided to cancel the event because of bad weather.
Paraphrase: The manager made a decision to call off the event due to bad weather.
Original: She explained the rules to the participants clearly.
Paraphrase: She gave a clear explanation of the rules to the participants.
Original: After he finished his meal, he left the restaurant.
Paraphrase: After completing his meal, he departed from the restaurant.
Original: The scientist discovered a new element.
Paraphrase: The scientist found a new element.
Original: They continued working even though it was late.
Paraphrase: They kept on working despite the late hour.

Answer Key (9.5)

The manager made a decision to call off the event due to bad weather.
She gave a clear explanation of the rules to the participants.
After completing his meal, he departed from the restaurant.
The scientist found a new element.
They kept on working despite the late hour.

10. Advanced Topics

10.1. Predicate Synonyms in Academic Writing

Paraphrasing predicates is crucial for avoiding plagiarism. Academic writers often use predicate synonyms to restate ideas from sources while making the text original. Example: “The researchers found a link” → “A connection was identified by the researchers.”

10.2. Stylistic Effects and Rhetorical Devices

Predicate synonyms can add emphasis, variety, or a specific tone. Example: “He admitted his error” (neutral) vs. “He confessed his error” (stronger, more dramatic).

10.3. Predicate Synonymy in Translation

Translators must find predicates in the target language that match both the meaning and style of the original. Literal translation can lead to awkwardness or loss of meaning, so understanding predicate synonyms is essential.

10.4. Predicate Synonyms and Corpus Linguistics

Corpus studies show which predicate synonyms are most frequent in real texts, helping learners choose natural-sounding options. For example, “make a decision” is much more common than “take a decision” in American English.

10.5. Predicate Synonyms in Language Acquisition

Teaching predicate synonyms helps learners expand their expressive range and understand nuances. Techniques include synonym lists, paraphrasing exercises, and corpus-based activities.

10.6. Cognitive Aspects of Predicate Synonymy

Research suggests that the brain processes paraphrased predicates by mapping core meanings and recognizing equivalent structures, which aids in comprehension and memory retention.

11. FAQ Section

What is a synonym of predicate?
A synonym of predicate is an alternative way of expressing the same action, state, or event in a sentence, often by using different verbs, structures, or paraphrases. For example, “She finished her work” and “She completed her work” are predicate synonyms.
How is a predicate synonym different from a verb synonym?
A verb synonym is simply a different verb with similar meaning (e.g., “run” and “jog”). A predicate synonym can involve changing the verb, the sentence structure, or both—such as active to passive voice, or using a noun phrase instead of a verb.
Why should I use predicate synonyms in writing?
Using predicate synonyms prevents repetition, adapts your writing to different audiences, and allows you to paraphrase information (especially important in academic writing).
Can predicate synonyms always be interchanged?
Not always. Some synonyms may change the nuance, collocation, or formality. Always check for appropriateness and naturalness.
How do I know if I’ve chosen the correct predicate synonym?
Test the sentence for meaning, register, grammar, and collocation. If it sounds natural and doesn’t change the meaning, it’s likely correct.
What are some common mistakes when using predicate synonyms?
Common mistakes include wrong collocation, incorrect register, tense/voice mismatches, ambiguity, and redundancy.
Are there differences between British and American predicate synonyms?
Yes, some predicate synonyms are region-specific (e.g., “have a bath” [UK] vs. “take a bath” [US]).
How do predicate synonyms affect sentence meaning?
They can subtly change nuance, emphasis, or formality. It’s important to select the synonym that best fits your intended meaning.
What is the role of predicate synonyms in academic paraphrasing?
Predicate synonyms are essential for paraphrasing, which helps avoid plagiarism and demonstrates understanding.
Can phrasal verbs be predicate synonyms?
Yes, phrasal verbs (e.g., “put off”) often serve as synonyms for single-word verbs (“postpone”).
How do I teach predicate synonyms to ESL students?
Use synonym lists, paraphrasing activities, real text examples, and practice exercises to build awareness and confidence.
Where can I find more examples of predicate synonyms?
Grammar websites, learner dictionaries, academic writing guides, and corpus databases are excellent sources for examples.

12. Conclusion

Understanding and using predicate synonyms is a powerful skill for clear, effective, and varied communication in English. By mastering predicate equivalents, writers and speakers can avoid repetition, enhance their style, and adapt to different contexts with confidence.

Regular practice with examples, exercises, and real-world application will strengthen your ability to paraphrase and choose the most suitable predicate synonym for any situation. For further learning, explore grammar books, reputable language websites, and academic writing guides such as “Practical English Usage” by Michael Swan or the Purdue OWL.

If you have questions or want to share your experiences with predicate synonyms, feel free to comment or reach out—language learning is a journey best traveled together!

Table of Contents