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Linking Verbs
What are Linking Verbs?
Linking verbs, also known as copular verbs, are a type of verb that connects the subject of a sentence to a subject complement. Unlike action verbs, linking verbs do not express an action. Instead, they describe the subject’s state of being or condition. Linking verbs are crucial in forming complete and grammatically correct sentences.
Example:
- The cake is delicious.
- Explanation: “Is” is a linking verb that connects the subject “cake” to the adjective “delicious,” which describes the cake’s state.
- She seems happy.
- Explanation: “Seems” is a linking verb that connects the subject “she” to the adjective “happy,” describing her apparent state.
Types of Linking Verbs
There are three main categories of linking verbs:
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To Be Verbs These are the most common linking verbs and include all forms of “to be.”
Examples: am, is, are, was, were, been, being
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Sensory Verbs These verbs relate to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, feel).
Examples: look, sound, smell, taste, feel
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Change of State Verbs These verbs indicate a change in the subject’s condition or state.
Examples: become, grow, turn, prove, remain
Examples of Linking Verbs in Sentences
| Type of Linking Verb | Example |
|---|---|
| To Be | The cat is sleepy. |
| Sensory | The melody sounds harmonious. |
| Change of State | The leaves turned brown in autumn. |
How Linking Verbs Function in Sentences
Linking verbs typically connect a subject to one of two types of complements:
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Predicate Nominative (Noun or Pronoun)
- She is a doctor.
- The winner was him.
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Predicate Adjective
- The music sounds beautiful.
- The soup tastes salty.
Understanding the function of linking verbs is crucial for mastering subject-verb agreement in English.
Linking Verbs vs. Action Verbs
It’s important to note that some verbs can function as both linking verbs and action verbs, depending on their usage in a sentence. The tense of the verb doesn’t change its status as a linking or action verb.
Examples:
- Linking verb: The flower smells sweet. (describes the flower’s scent)
- Action verb: She smells the flower. (performs the action of smelling)
Key Takeaways
- Linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence to a subject complement.
- They do not express action but describe the subject’s state or condition.
- There are three main types of linking verbs: to be verbs, sensory verbs, and change of state verbs.
- Some verbs can function as both linking and action verbs depending on their usage.
- Effective use of linking verbs can enhance the clarity and descriptiveness of your writing.
Linking verbs are an essential part of the parts of speech in English, working alongside other elements to create meaningful sentences.
FAQs
Can linking verbs ever express action?
While linking verbs primarily describe a state of being, some verbs can function as both linking and action verbs depending on the context. For example, “appear” in “She appeared happy” is a linking verb, but in “She appeared on stage,” it’s an action verb.How do linking verbs differ from helping verbs?
Linking verbs connect the subject to a complement that describes or renames it. Helping verbs (also called auxiliary verbs) assist the main verb in expressing tense, voice, or mood. Some verbs, like forms of “to be,” can function as both linking and helping verbs depending on the sentence structure.Are there ways to reduce the use of linking verbs in writing?
Yes, you can often make your writing more dynamic by replacing linking verbs with more descriptive action verbs. For example, instead of “The dog was tired,” you could write “The dog panted heavily.” However, linking verbs are sometimes necessary and shouldn’t be eliminated entirely.Can linking verbs be used in passive voice?
Linking verbs are generally not used in passive voice. Passive constructions typically involve action verbs and shift the focus from the doer to the action.How do I identify a linking verb in a sentence?
To identify a linking verb, check if the verb connects the subject to a descriptive word or phrase rather than indicating an action. Common linking verbs include forms of “to be,” “seem,” “become,” and sensory verbs like “look” and “feel.”Prev
Action Verbs