Linking verbs in English Language Online Lesson
Linking verbs
A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject of a sentence to a subject complement. It does not express action like most verbs, but instead describes the state or condition of the subject.
Linking verbs are also sometimes called copulas or copular verbs.
Types of linking verbs:
- Be verbs: These include "am," "is," "are," "was," "were," "been," and "being." Examples:
- She is a doctor.
- They were tired.
Become: This means to start being or to change into something else. Example: He became a scientist.
Seem: This means to give the impression of being something. Example: She seems happy.
Appear: This means to come into view or to be seen. Example: The sun appeared on the horizon.
Look: This means to seem or appear in a particular way. Example: He looks happy.
Taste: This means to have a particular flavor. Example: The soup tastes delicious.
Smell: This means to have a particular odor. Example: The flowers smell wonderful.
Feel: This means to be perceived through touch. Example: The blanket feels soft.
Practical uses of linking verbs:
- To describe the subject's identity or character: She is a nurse.
- To describe the subject's condition or appearance: He looks tired.
- To describe the subject's possession of something: They are my friends.
Special cases to consider when using linking verbs:
If the subject complement is a pronoun, it must be in the subjective case. Examples:
She is I. (incorrect)
She is me. (correct)
If the subject complement is a noun, it should be in the objective case if it follows a preposition. Example: He gave the award to her. (not "to she")
Comprehension exercises Linking verbs:
Identify the linking verb in the following sentence: She is a teacher.
Answer: is
Choose the correct linking verb to complete the sentence: The soup _______ delicious.
Answer: tastes
Rewrite the following sentence using the correct subject pronoun: He is I.
Answer: He is me.
Choose the correct verb to complete the sentence: The flowers _______ wonderful.
Answer: smell
Complete the following sentence with the correct verb: She _______ happy.
Answer: seems