Complement vs. Object

Attribute	Complement	Object
Definition	A word or phrase that completes the meaning of a verb	A noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that receives the action of a verb
Position	Can be placed after the verb or in certain cases, before the verb	Usually placed after the verb
Function	Provides additional information about the subject or object	Receives the action of the verb
Types	Complements can be direct, indirect, prepositional, or subject complements	Objects can be direct objects, indirect objects, or objects of prepositions
Grammatical Case	Complements can be in different cases depending on the language	Objects can be in different cases depending on the language
Examples	"I consider him a friend."	"She bought a book."

Introduction

In the study of grammar, understanding the different components of a sentence is crucial. Two such components that often cause confusion are the complement and the object. While both play important roles in sentence structure, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will delve into the characteristics of complement and object, exploring their functions, positions, and relationships within a sentence.

Definition and Function

Let's begin by defining the complement and the object. A complement is a word, phrase, or clause that completes the meaning of a verb, adjective, or preposition. It provides additional information that is necessary to fully understand the sentence. On the other hand, an object is a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that receives the action of a transitive verb or shows the result of that action.

The main function of a complement is to provide more information about the subject or the object of a sentence. It can be used to describe, identify, or modify the subject or object. For example, in the sentence "She is a talented singer," the complement "talented singer" describes the subject "she." Similarly, in the sentence "He painted the wall blue," the complement "blue" describes the object "wall."

Position in a Sentence

When it comes to their position within a sentence, complements and objects differ. A complement can appear before or after the verb, depending on the type of complement and the verb it complements. For instance, in the sentence "I am happy," the complement "happy" follows the linking verb "am." However, in the sentence "They made him captain," the complement "captain" follows the object "him" and the transitive verb "made."

On the other hand, an object typically follows the verb in a sentence. In a simple sentence with a transitive verb, the object directly receives the action of the verb. For example, in the sentence "She ate an apple," the object "an apple" follows the verb "ate." However, it's important to note that in some cases, an object can also appear before the verb, especially in interrogative sentences or when using certain verbs like "give" or "send." For instance, in the sentence "Did you see the movie?" the object "the movie" precedes the verb "see."

Types of Complements

Complements can be further categorized into different types based on their grammatical role and the verb they complement. Let's explore some common types of complements:

1. Subject Complement: A subject complement follows a linking verb and describes or identifies the subject. For example, in the sentence "She is a doctor," the complement "a doctor" describes the subject "she."
2. Object Complement: An object complement follows a direct object and provides additional information about it. For instance, in the sentence "They elected him president," the complement "president" describes the object "him."
3. Adjective Complement: An adjective complement modifies an adjective and provides more information about it. For example, in the sentence "I am happy to help," the complement "to help" modifies the adjective "happy."
4. Adverbial Complement: An adverbial complement modifies an adverb and provides additional information about it. For instance, in the sentence "She ran fast," the complement "fast" modifies the adverb "ran."
5. Prepositional Complement: A prepositional complement follows a preposition and completes its meaning. For example, in the sentence "He is fond of music," the complement "of music" completes the preposition "of."

Types of Objects

Similar to complements, objects can also be classified into different types based on their grammatical role and the verb they receive. Let's explore some common types of objects:

1. Direct Object: A direct object directly receives the action of a transitive verb. For example, in the sentence "She bought a book," the object "a book" receives the action of the verb "bought."
2. Indirect Object: An indirect object indicates to whom or for whom the action of the verb is performed. It usually appears before the direct object. For instance, in the sentence "He gave me a gift," the object "me" is the indirect object, while "a gift" is the direct object.
3. Object of a Preposition: An object of a preposition follows a preposition and completes its meaning. For example, in the sentence "She sat on the chair," the object "the chair" completes the preposition "on."
4. Clausal Object: A clausal object is a whole clause that functions as the object of a verb. For instance, in the sentence "I believe that he is innocent," the clause "that he is innocent" acts as the object of the verb "believe."
5. Object Complement: As mentioned earlier, an object complement provides additional information about the direct object. It follows the direct object and modifies or describes it. For example, in the sentence "They made him captain," the complement "captain" describes the object "him."

Relationship with Verbs

Both complements and objects have a close relationship with verbs, but in different ways. A complement is essential for the meaning of a verb, as it completes or modifies it. Without a complement, the verb may lack clarity or completeness. For example, in the sentence "She became," the verb "became" lacks a complement, making the sentence incomplete. However, when we add a complement like "a doctor," the sentence becomes meaningful and complete: "She became a doctor."

On the other hand, an object is directly affected by the action of a transitive verb. The verb acts upon the object, causing a change or result. Without an object, the action of the verb may not have a clear recipient or purpose. For instance, in the sentence "He painted," the verb "painted" lacks an object, making it unclear what he painted. However, when we add an object like "the wall," the sentence gains clarity and meaning: "He painted the wall."

Conclusion

In conclusion, while complements and objects share some similarities in terms of their grammatical functions, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. Complements provide additional information about the subject or object, while objects receive the action of a transitive verb. Complements can appear before or after the verb, depending on the type, while objects typically follow the verb. Both complements and objects play crucial roles in sentence structure, contributing to the overall meaning and clarity of a sentence. Understanding the differences between complements and objects is essential for mastering the intricacies of grammar and constructing well-formed sentences.