What is the function of the infinitive phrase 'to become a doctor' in the sentence 'His ambition is to become a doctor'?
Understand the Problem
The question asks us to identify the grammatical function of the infinitive phrase "to become a doctor" within the sentence "His ambition is to become a doctor." We need to determine if it acts as an adverb, verb, adjective, or noun.
Answer
Predicate nominative, renaming the subject 'his ambition'.
The infinitive phrase 'to become a doctor' functions as a predicate nominative, renaming or defining the subject 'his ambition'.
Answer for screen readers
The infinitive phrase 'to become a doctor' functions as a predicate nominative, renaming or defining the subject 'his ambition'.
More Information
In the sentence, the infinitive phrase follows a linking verb ('is') and renames or defines the subject ('his ambition'), which is the role of a predicate nominative.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse predicate nominatives with direct objects. Remember that predicate nominatives follow linking verbs and rename the subject, while direct objects receive the action of the verb.
Sources
- Infinitives - Purdue OWL - owl.purdue.edu
- Infinitive Phrases in English Quiz - Course Hero - coursehero.com
- Mastering Infinitive Phrases: Definition, Types, And Examples - grammarsphere.com
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