Formal verb complementation

Control less common complement patterns after verbs such as deem, warrant, entail, preclude and suffice.

When do we use it?

Choose formal object complements, gerunds and infinitive patterns accurately.

Form

Learn each formal predicate with its conventional complement and passive behavior.

• They deemed the plan unworkable.
• The evidence warrants investigating.
• This precludes us from proceeding.

Key contrast

At C2, grammar is a resource for controlling perspective, density, rhythm and register, not merely avoiding error.

Common mistakes

• They deemed that the plan unworkable. → They deemed the plan unworkable.
• It precludes to proceed. → It precludes us from proceeding.

Remember

Control less common complement patterns after verbs such as deem, warrant, entail, preclude and suffice.

Quick check

• Identify the information focus and logical relationship.
• Check auxiliary order, reference and complement pattern.
• Choose the option that is idiomatic in the intended register.