Ø  A predicate adjective is an adjective that follows a linking verb and the subject of the linking verb.

Ø  A predicate adjective contrasts with an attributive adjective, which typically sits immediately before the noun it modifies.

Ø  Study the two sentences below.

(i)                 The dress is expensive.

(ii)               The expensive dress has been bought.

Ø  In the first sentence, adjective ‘expensive’ comes after the linking verb “is”. It is therefore predicative.

Ø  In the second sentence, it sits before the verb . it has been used attributively.

Ø  Look at the sentences and phrases below. The adjective in boldface has been used attributively, while the one underlined, predicatively. 

• This sea is blue.
• The blue will be visited.
• The boys are happy.
• The happy boys are coming.