Case After a Linking Verb
Linking verbs connect a subject with a role or description. Nominative is common with biti; instrumental also occurs, especially with verbs expressing a role or change.
How It Works
Ana je liječnica. uses a nominative noun as part of the predicate. It identifies Ana’s profession. The noun is not a direct object, and biti does not turn it into an accusative object.
With verbs such as postati, both nominative and instrumental predicate nouns occur: postala je liječnica / liječnicom. An instrumental predicate can sound more formal in some contexts. Learn the whole linking construction rather than imposing one case on every verb.
Adjectival descriptions show agreement: postala je mirna. A reflexive expression such as osjećati se sigurnim supplies another instrumental predicate pattern. The participant being described determines gender and number.
Examples (3)
- Ivan je liječnik.
Ivan is a doctor.
- Ana je postala ravnateljicom škole.
Ana became the head of the school.
- Nakon razgovora osjećao se sigurnim.
After the conversation, he felt confident.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Linking predicates can use a nominative or instrumental complement according to the verb and construction.
- sam / si / je / smo / ste / suPresent of Biti
Linking predicates can use a nominative or instrumental complement according to the verb and construction.
Level 1 - Instrumental -om / -emInstrumental Singular Endings
Linking predicates can use a nominative or instrumental complement according to the verb and construction.
Level 2
Related Patterns
Practice Case After a Linking Verb in Bubblegum
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