Good writing starts with understanding the basics. Among these basics is the simple subject—the core of every sentence. Many writers struggle with identifying different types of simple subjects, which can lead to unclear writing.
What is a simple subject?
A simple subject is the main noun, pronoun, or group of words acting as a noun that a sentence is about. It doesn’t include any modifiers. When you strip away all the descriptive words in a sentence, the simple subject remains.
For example, in the sentence “The energetic dog ran across the yard,” “dog” is the simple subject.
Let’s explore the seven main types of simple subjects that appear in English writing.
1. Nouns
Nouns are the most common type of simple subject. They name people, places, things, or ideas.
Simple subject examples:
- Dogs bark loudly at night.
- Coffee tastes better when freshly brewed.
- Chicago experiences harsh winters.
- Freedom means different things to different people.
In each case, the simple subject is just one word—the main noun the sentence discusses.
2. Pronouns
Pronouns replace nouns and serve as simple subjects in many sentences.
Examples:
- She runs marathons every spring.
- They arrived late to the meeting.
- It seems impossible to solve.
- We hope to finish the project soon.
The pronouns above serve as the simple subjects, carrying the weight of what each sentence is about.
3. Gerunds
Gerunds are verbs ending in “-ing” that function as nouns. They often appear as simple subjects.
Examples:
- Swimming builds strength and endurance.
- Reading improves vocabulary and critical thinking.
- Cooking relaxes me after a long day.
- Jogging through the park clears my mind.
Each gerund works as a noun and serves as the simple subject of its sentence.
4. Infinitives
An infinitive is the base form of a verb with “to” in front of it. When used as a noun, infinitives can function as simple subjects.
Examples:
- To win requires dedication and practice.
- To understand complex concepts takes time.
- To forgive shows great strength of character.
- To sleep is all I want after working overtime.
These infinitives form the core of what each sentence discusses.
5. Noun Phrases
Sometimes a simple subject consists of a noun phrase—a group of related words that together function as a noun.
Examples:
- The old man lives alone on the hill.
- My best friend always knows what to say.
- The big red house needs a new roof.
- A well-written essay deserves recognition.
While these contain modifiers, they function together as the simple subject of each sentence.
6. Compound Subjects
When two or more nouns or pronouns are joined by “and” or “or,” they form a compound subject.
Examples:
- Tom and Jerry chase each other endlessly.
- Coffee or tea works well with breakfast.
- The cat, the dog, and the mouse lived together peacefully.
- She and I plan to attend the concert.
Each pair or group forms a compound subject that functions as the simple subject.
7. Abstract Concepts
Abstract concepts are ideas that can’t be experienced through the five senses but serve as simple subjects.
Examples:
- Love conquers all obstacles.
- Justice should be blind to wealth and status.
- Hope keeps people going in hard times.
- Wisdom comes with age and experience.
These abstract concepts serve as the core of what each sentence is about.
Why Understanding Simple Subjects Matters
Knowing how to identify simple subjects helps writers:
- Create clearer sentences with proper subject-verb agreement
- Vary sentence structure to make writing more engaging
- Avoid fragments and run-on sentences
- Focus the reader’s attention on the main idea
By mastering these seven types of simple subjects, you’ll build a stronger foundation for your writing. Next time you write, try identifying the simple subjects in your own sentences.
Remember, the simple subject forms the heart of your sentence. Choose it wisely, and the rest of your writing will fall into place around it.
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