Finding the Sentence Core or Sentence Base #1

The sentence core or base is the smallest statement possible for a sentence. To find this, we look for the simple subject (one word if possible) and the simple predicate (the verb phrase). Any modifiers are omitted. Recall that a clause is a group of words having both a subject and a verb.

Let's reduce this sentence to its core:
Three salmon swam relentlessly upstream to return to their original spawning ground.

The core is: Salmon swam.

Everything else is adjectives and adverbs, such as the adjective "three" and the adverb "relentlessly." "To return" is a verb, but it's an infinitive, not the main verb. (The infinitive phrase tells us "why" it swam, so it functions as an adverb.)

The usual order for English sentences is S-V (subject then verb) plus any objects and modifiers.

To find the verb, ask: "What is the action?" That should lead you to the main verb or verbs. Include any helping verbs as well, but no adverbs.

Then ask: "Who or what is doing the action?" That will lead you to the subject. For descriptive sentences, you can ask "What is this sentence about?" to find the subject.

The value of being able to isolate the sentence core is to be clear about a sentence's basic elements, and to add modifiers thoughtfully. This allows you to manipulate, expand, and shape your sentences with craft and precision.

Subjects and verbs can be "compound," meaning a sentence can have more than one subject and verb -- more than one clause.

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