Predicates

Definition

In traditional grammar, the term "predicate" refers to the verb form that describes the action, process, or state related to the subject. Example: In the sentence "She is currently reading the dictionary," "is reading" is the predicate, as it describes the activity that the subject "she" is performing.

In the context of NLP, the term "predicates" refers to linguistic means by which people express their perceptions and internal representations (e.g., images, sounds, feelings). Predicates are therefore forms of expression that represent specific sensory channels – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, olfactory, and gustatory. By analyzing predicates, one can recognize which perceptual modality a person prefers. Thus, communication can be specifically tailored to that.

Origins and Theoretical Background

The term "predicate" originally comes from grammar. In linguistics, it has been further developed to capture the relationships between linguistic expressions and perceptions.

In NLP, Richard Bandler and John Grinder used the concept to show how language reflects a person's perception and internal representations. By recognizing the predicates, preferred sensory modalities can be identified, and communication can be adjusted more effectively.

Application Examples

Coaching: A client says: "I see clearly that..." → visual preference. A coach might address him with vivid language. Another says: "I feel uncomfortable" → kinesthetic preference, and the coach uses terms that address sensations.
Therapy: A therapist recognizes from the predicates which perceptual modalities a client prefers and uses these purposefully in their work.
Communication: When a person frequently uses kinesthetic expressions ("That feels right"), the conversation partner can mirror these to establish a deeper connection.

Areas of Application

Therapy: Recognizing and adjusting communication to the client's perceptual world.
Coaching: Using predicates to change perception and support change processes.
Leadership Training: Adjusting communication to employee preferences.
Conflict resolution: Using predicates to avoid misunderstandings and promote harmonious communication.

Methods and Exercises

Predicate recognition: Pay attention to words like "see," "hear," "feel" to identify a person's preferred modality.
Modality adjustment: Mirroring the predicates of the conversation partner to build rapport.
Submodalities work: Linking predicates with subtle perceptual differences (e.g., bright/dark, loud/quiet) to specifically influence internal representations.

Synonyms or Related Terms

Modalities
representational systems
Submodalities

Scientific or Practical Benefit

Scientifically: Language and communication research shows that predicates can provide insight into perceptual modalities.
Practically: By specifically adjusting to predicates, communication, coaching, and therapy can be made more effective.

Criticism or Limitations

Subjectivity: People can use the same predicates differently, so interpretation is not always clear.
Overinterpretation: The danger of overly generalizing perceptual modalities and overlooking differences between contexts.

Literature and References

Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
Dilts, R. (1998). NLP: The New Technology of Achievement. HarperCollins.
O'Connor, J., & Seymour, J. (1995). Introducing NLP: Psychological Skills for Understanding and Influencing People. HarperCollins.

Metaphor or Analogy

Predicates are like the buttons of a remote control, with which you adjust a person's perceptual world. When someone presses "see," "hear," or "feel," they show which channels they prefer. By using the same buttons, you can better understand their world and specifically tailor your communication to it.