Subject of a Sentence

Every sentence in English is built around two key parts: the subject and the predicate. The subject tells us who or what the sentence is about, while the predicate explains what that subject does or is. Without a subject, a sentence cannot stand alone on its own.

In this article, you will learn what a subject of a sentence is, the different types of subjects, how to identify them in sentences, and examples of sentences showing how subjects function in the sentence.

What is the Subject of a Sentence?

The subject of a sentence is the person, place, thing, or idea that the sentence is about. It usually comes before the verb and tells the reader or listener who is performing the action.

Examples:

• Sara runs every morning. (subject = Sara)
• The black dog barked loudly. (subject = The black dog)

Types of Subjects in English

1. Simple Subject

The main noun or pronoun in a sentence without any modifiers.

Example:

• Birds sing. 

Here, the simple subject is Birds.

2. Complete Subject

The simple subject plus all the words that describe or modify it.

Example:

• The little birds in the garden sing.

Here, the complete subject is “The little birds in the garden”.

3. Compound Subject

Two or more subjects joined by and, or, or nor that share the same verb.

Example:

• Ali and Sara are best friends.

Here, the compound subject is Ali and Sara.

How to Identify the Subject in a Sentence

To find the subject, ask: Who or what is this sentence about? Then look for the noun or pronoun before the verb.

Examples

• The tall boy with the red hat plays football.

Subject = The tall boy with the red hat

• My parents and I went shopping.

Subject = My parents and I

Examples of Subjects in Sentences

Here are some examples of Subjects in sentences:

• My best friend lives in Canada.
• The bus arrives at 9 a.m.
• Children love to play outside.
• The discovery of new planets excites scientists.
• Discipline and hard work lead to success.

Subject-Verb Agreement and the Subject of a Sentence

Subjects must always agree with verbs in number (singular or plural).

For example:

• The cat runs fast. (singular subject = singular verb)
• The cats run fast. (plural subject = plural verb)
• Neither the teacher nor the students are ready. (verb agrees with the closest subject)

Conclusion

The subject of a sentence is the backbone of English grammar. It tells us who or what the sentence is about and ensures clarity in both writing and speaking. By learning to identify simple, complete, and compound subjects, you will avoid confusion and improve your subject-verb agreement.

FAQs About the Subject of a Sentence

What is the subject of a sentence in grammar?

The subject of a sentence is the person, place, thing, or idea that the sentence is about. It usually comes before the verb.

What is the difference between the subject and the predicate?

The subject tells us who or what the sentence is about. Whereas the predicate tells us what the subject does or is. For example: 

• The students (subject) are studying for the exam (predicate).

Can a sentence have two subjects?

Yes. A sentence can have a compound subject, which means two or more subjects share the same verb. See the following example:

• Ali and Sara are playing outside.

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• Simple Subject: Definition and Examples
• Complete Subject in Grammar
• Compound Subject: Rules and Examples
• Subject-Verb Agreement: Rules, Examples, and Usage