Verbs

Action Verbs and Linking Verbs

Beginner 1 min read 3-question quiz

A verb tells us what someone or something does, or what state they are in. Every complete sentence needs a verb.

Action verbs

Action verbs describe things we can do: run, write, eat, jump, think.

The children play in the garden.

Linking verbs

Linking verbs do not show action. They connect the subject to a description: is, am, are, was, seem, become, feel.

The soup tastes delicious. She is happy.

Quick tip

Ask yourself: “What is happening?” or “What is the subject like?” The answer usually leads you to the verb.

Practice

Check your understanding

3 questions · pass mark 70%

1Which word is the verb in "The bird sings every morning"?
2Which of these is an action verb?
3In "She is happy", what kind of verb is "is"?
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