Hey there! Today, we’re diving into one of the fundamentals of English grammar – linking verbs. If you’ve ever wondered how to connect the subject of a sentence to more information about it, then understanding linking verbs is a must. These verbs act as bridges—connecting the subject to a description, a state, or a condition, and ensuring your sentences are clear and meaningful.
Now, I know some grammar topics can be confusing or overlooked, but mastering linking verbs can seriously boost your writing and speaking skills. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or someone who just loves polishing their English, this guide will give you everything you need to confidently identify and use linking verbs — and avoid common mistakes along the way. Ready? Let’s get started!
What Are Linking Verbs? An In-Depth Explanation
At its core, a linking verb is a word that links the subject of a sentence to a subject complement—a word or phrase that describes or identifies the subject. Unlike action verbs that show what the subject is doing, linking verbs focus on the state or condition of the subject.
Think of linking verbs as connectors—they don’t show action but instead serve as an equal sign in a sentence, establishing a relationship between the subject and the description.
Definition List:
- Linking Verb: A verb that connects the subject with a predicate (information or description about the subject).
- Subject Complement: The word or phrase that describes or renames the subject, following a linking verb.
Example:
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| She is happy. | “Is” links “She” to “happy,” describing her state. |
| The cake smells delicious. | “Smells” connects “the cake” to “delicious,” indicating an attribute. |
Common Linking Verbs You Need to Know
Here’s a list of the most essential linking verbs for clear communication:
The "Be" Verbs
| Verb | Usage Example | Note |
|---|---|---|
| am | I am ready. | The most basic linking verb. |
| is | She is a teacher. | |
| are | They are excited. | |
| was | He was tired. | Past tense version. |
| were | We were tired. | |
| be | To be or not to be | Infinitive form, used with modals. |
| being | She is being helpful. | Present participle, context-specific. |
| been | They have been busy. | Perfect tense. |
The "Sense" Verbs
These verbs describe a state of being or perception, functioning as linking verbs:
| Verb | Usage Example | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| seem | He seems upset. | Indicates an appearance or impression. |
| become | She became a singer. | Shows a change or transformation. |
| feel | I feel good today. | Describes a health or emotional state. |
| look | That looks beautiful. | Visual perception, linking to an adjective. |
| sound | The music sounds lovely. | Auditory perception. |
| appear | He appears tired. | Suggests an impression or visible state. |
Other Common Linking Verbs
| Verb | Usage Example | Note |
|---|---|---|
| remain | She remained silent. | Emphasizes staying in a certain state. |
| grow | The leaves grow green. | Often indicates a change of state. |
| stay | They stay calm. | Describes continued state. |
| turn | The milk turns sour. | Indicates transformation. |
| prove | He proved innocent. | Describes a conclusion or result. |
How to Identify Linking Verbs in Sentences
The key to mastering linking verbs is knowing how to spot them. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Find the Subject
Start with the main noun or pronoun performing or being described in the sentence.
Step 2: Find the Verb
Identify the main verb in the sentence.
Step 3: Check if the Verb Connects to a Descriptive Word
Ask yourself: does this verb link the subject to a descriptor (adjective, noun, or phrase)? If yes, it's likely a linking verb.
Example:
Sentence: The flowers smell fragrant.
- Subject: The flowers
- Verb: smell
- Does it link to a description? Yes — “fragrant”
- Conclusion: “smell” here is a linking verb.
Tip: Substitute with “be” verbs
If you can replace the verb with “is,” “was,” “are,” etc., and the sentence still makes sense, then it’s likely a linking verb.
Data-Rich Table: Differentiating Linking from Action Verbs
| Verb Type | Example Sentence | Action/State? | Can It Be Replaced With “Be”? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Verb | She runs every morning. | Action – running | No |
| Linking Verb | She is a teacher. | State of being | Yes |
| Action Verb | They painted the wall. | Physical activity | No |
| Linking Verb | The sky looks cloudy. | State or appearance | Yes |
Why Are Linking Verbs Important?
Understanding and correctly using linking verbs is vital because they:
- Help convey states, feelings, and attributes clearly.
- Are essential in forming descriptive sentences.
- Make sentences more nuanced, adding depth and clarity.
Without linking verbs, your descriptive writing or speech could sound choppy or incomplete.
Tips for Success with Linking Verbs
- Practice identifying linking verbs in everyday sentences.
- Use substitution: swap the verb with “be” to test if it’s a linking verb.
- Memorize common linking verbs to recognize them naturally.
- Pay attention to adjectives or nouns that follow the verb to help confirm if it’s a linking verb.
- Read more complex sentences to see how linking verbs function in context.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Example | Corrected Version | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Confusing action with linking verb | She runs tired. | She looks tired. | Check if the verb links to a description or shows action. |
| Using action verbs as linking verbs | She becomes tired. | Correct use; “becomes” is a linking verb. | Know the list of common linking verbs. |
| Omitting the linking verb altogether | His face red. | His face is red. | Remember to include “is” or a similar verb for clarity. |
Variations and Related Concepts
Linking verbs can sometimes be confused with auxiliary or helping verbs, so it’s worth knowing the difference:
| Term | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Linking Verb | Connects subject to description or identity. | She is a singer. |
| Auxiliary Verb | Helps form verb tense or mood. | She has finished. |
| Modal Verb | Expresses ability, permission, or possibility. | She can sing. |
Practice Exercises: Putting Theory Into Action
1. Fill-in-the-Blank
Fill in the blank with an appropriate linking verb:
- The soup tastes delicious.
- He became a professional athlete.
- The sky turns pink at sunset.
- They remain calm under pressure.
- The children seem happy today.
2. Error Correction
Identify the mistake and correct it:
- She run fast. (Correction: She runs fast.)
- The flowers smell beautifully. (Correction: The flowers smell beautiful.)
- He was becoming tired. (Correct as is.)
- The cake looks deliciously. (Correction: The cake looks delicious.)
3. Identification Exercise
Identify whether the bolded verb is a linking verb or action verb:
- She is a doctor.
- They played outside.
- The water feels cold.
- He turned left at the corner.
- The book seems interesting.
4. Sentence Construction
Create sentences with the following verbs as linking verbs:
- look
- become
- remain
- appear
- sound
5. Category Matching
Match each verb to its appropriate category:
| Verb | Category |
|---|---|
| is | Linking Verb |
| run | Action Verb |
| become | Linking Verb |
| paint | Action Verb |
| look | Linking Verb |
Final Thoughts: Mastering Linking Verbs
In conclusion, understanding linking verbs is crucial for constructing meaningful and grammatically correct sentences. They serve as the bridge between the subject and a descriptive or identifying word, enriching your language skills. Remember, the key is practice—identify, substitute, and compose sentences confidently.
By incorporating these tips and exercises into your daily language practice, you'll soon find linking verbs becoming second nature. Never underestimate the power of a good connector in your sentences. Keep practicing, and watch your communication skills soar!
Ready to take your grammar mastery to the next level? Keep practicing with these exercises and always stay curious about language! Thanks for reading — now, go out there and write with confidence.