Understanding Linking Verbs and Their Examples
Linking verbs play a crucial role in the English language, often overlooked but essential for clear and effective communication. They connect the subject of a sentence to a noun or adjective that describes or identifies the subject. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of linking verbs, their usage, and provide you with a variety of examples to enhance your understanding.
What is a Linking Verb?
A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject of a sentence to a noun or adjective that describes or identifies the subject. Unlike action verbs, linking verbs do not indicate an action but rather a state of being or a description. They are typically followed by a complement, which can be a noun, adjective, or a phrase that provides additional information about the subject.
Types of Linking Verbs
There are two main types of linking verbs: copular verbs and impersonal verbs.
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Copular Verbs | be, seem, appear, look, become, grow, remain, stay, turn, get |
| Impersonal Verbs | be said, be known, be reported, be believed, be thought |
Copular verbs are the most common type of linking verbs and are used to describe the state of being or appearance of the subject. Impersonal verbs, on the other hand, are used to express information about the subject without mentioning the subject directly.
Examples of Linking Verbs in Sentences
Let’s explore some examples of linking verbs in sentences to better understand their usage:
1. The cake is delicious.
2. She seems happy today.
3. The sky appears dark.
4. The flowers look beautiful.
5. The weather has become colder.
6. The book remains on the table.
7. The story is said to be true.
8. It is known that he is a great musician.
9. The report is reported to be accurate.
10. She is believed to be the best singer in the world.
Using Linking Verbs with Adjectives and Nouns
Linking verbs can be followed by adjectives or nouns to provide more information about the subject. Here are some examples:
1. The cake is delicious.
2. She seems happy today.
3. The sky appears dark.
4. The flowers look beautiful.
5. The weather has become colder.
6. The book remains on the table.
7. The story is said to be true.
8. It is known that he is a great musician.
9. The report is reported to be accurate.
10. She is believed to be the best singer in the world.
Common Mistakes When Using Linking Verbs
When using linking verbs, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Do not use linking verbs with action verbs. For example, “She is eating deliciously” is incorrect; instead, “The cake is delicious.”
- Avoid using linking verbs with adverbs. For example, “She is happily” is incorrect; instead, “She seems happy.”
- Do not use linking verbs with prepositional phrases. For example, “She is on the table” is incorrect; instead, “The book remains on the table.”
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