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This is “Predicate Adjectives”, section 1.14 (from appendix 1) from the book Writers' Handbook (v. 1.0). For details on it (including licensing), click here.
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21.14 Predicate Adjectives
Since linking verbs express a state of being instead of an action, adjectives are used after them instead of adverbs. An adjective that follows a linking verb is referred to as a predicate adjective. Be careful not to use an adverb simply because of the proximity to the verb.
Example
Correct (adjective follows linking verb): Kelly is selfish.
Incorrect (adverb follows linking verb): Kelly is selfishly.
Correct (adjective follows linking verb): Beth seems eager.
Incorrect (adverb follows linking verb): Beth seems eagerly.
Linking Verbs That Can Be Followed by Adjectives
•appear
•be
•become
•feel
•get
•grow
•keep
•look
•prove
•remain
•seem
•smell
•sound
•stay
•taste
•turn
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