Types of Verbs: Definitions and Examples
Corey CrossIntroduction to Verbs
Verbs are one of the fundamental building blocks of English grammar. They are essential for constructing sentences, as they describe actions, states, or occurrences. Understanding the different types of verbs is crucial for improving both written and verbal communication skills, especially for GCSE and A-Level exams.
Main Types of Verbs
1. Action Verbs
Action verbs express physical or mental actions. They tell us what the subject of a sentence is doing.
- Physical actions: run, jump, write, dance
- Mental actions: think, decide, consider, remember
Example: She runs every morning to stay fit.
2. Linking Verbs
Linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence to additional information about it. They do not show actions but rather states of being.
- Common linking verbs: be (am, is, are, was, were), seem, appear, become, feel
Example: The cake looks delicious.
3. Helping Verbs (Auxiliary Verbs)
Helping verbs assist the main verb in a sentence to form a tense, mood, or voice. They are often paired with action or linking verbs.
- Common helping verbs: have, has, had, do, does, did, will, shall, can, could
Example: She has finished her homework.
4. Modal Verbs
Modal verbs are a subset of auxiliary verbs that express possibility, necessity, ability, or permission.
- Common modal verbs: can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, must
Example: You should complete your revision before the exam.
5. Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
Transitive verbs require an object to complete their meaning, whereas intransitive verbs do not.
| Type | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Transitive | Needs an object | She wrote a letter. |
| Intransitive | Does not need an object | He slept peacefully. |
6. Regular and Irregular Verbs
Regular verbs follow the standard pattern of adding -ed for past tense, while irregular verbs have unique forms.
- Regular: play → played
- Irregular: go → went
Example: Yesterday, she went to the library.
7. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs combine a verb with a preposition or adverb to create a new meaning.
- Examples: give up, look after, turn off
Example: He gave up smoking last year.
Exam Tips for Verbs
GCSE Tips
- Learn common irregular verbs as they often appear in grammar questions.
- Practise identifying verb types in comprehension exercises.
- Understand how modal verbs can change the tone of a sentence.
A-Level Tips
- Focus on the nuances of modal verbs in academic writing, e.g., “may suggest” vs. “must demonstrate.”
- Use linking verbs effectively to create cohesive arguments.
- Be prepared to analyse phrasal verbs in texts for deeper meanings.
Practice Exercise: Identify the Types of Verbs
Can you identify the types of verbs in the sentences below?
- The dog barked loudly.
- She is a talented artist.
- We might visit the museum tomorrow.
- He gave up his spot in the queue.
- They played football last weekend.
Answers:
- 1: Action (Intransitive)
- 2: Linking
- 3: Modal + Main Verb
- 4: Phrasal Verb
- 5: Action (Transitive)
Conclusion
Mastering the types of verbs will not only improve your grammar but also enhance your writing and speaking skills. For personalised help with grammar and exam preparation, explore our AI tutoring platform or tailored lessons.