Anna: Hi, Mark! You look happy today.
Mark: Hi, Anna! I am excited because I became the team leader at work.
Anna: That’s amazing! You seem perfect for the role.
Mark: Thanks! It feels like a big responsibility, but I am ready for the challenge.
Anna: I am sure you will remain confident and do a great job.
Mark: Thanks, Anna! You are always so supportive.
Linking Verbs
Linking verbs are an essential part of English grammar, and understanding how to use them can greatly improve your ability to express yourself clearly. This guide will help you learn what linking verbs are, how they work, and how to use them correctly. Let’s dive in!
1. What Are Linking Verbs?
Linking verbs do not show action. Instead, they connect the subject of a sentence to more information about the subject. Think of them as a bridge between the subject and the rest of the sentence. They help describe what the subject is or seems to be.
Examples:
She is a teacher.
The soup smells delicious.
They seem happy.
In these examples, the linking verbs (is, smells, seem) connect the subject to descriptions or states of being.
2. Common Linking Verbs
Here are some common linking verbs to remember:
Forms of the verb "to be":
am, is, are, was, were, be, being, been
Verbs related to the senses:
look, smell, taste, feel, sound
Verbs showing a state of being or change:
appear, seem, become, grow, remain, stay, turn
3. How to Use Linking Verbs
A. Linking verbs + adjective
Linking verbs are often followed by adjectives that describe the subject.
Examples:
The flowers smell sweet.
He felt tired after the trip.
B. Linking verbs + noun
Linking verbs can also connect the subject to a noun that renames or identifies it.
Examples:
She is a doctor.
The winner was John.
4. How to Test for a Linking Verb
If you’re not sure whether a verb is linking or action, try this simple test:
Replace the verb with a form of to be (am, is, are, was, were).
If the sentence still makes sense, the verb is likely a linking verb.
Examples:
The cake tastes amazing. (Replace "tastes" with "is": The cake is amazing. ✓ Makes sense!)
She runs fast. (Replace "runs" with "is": She is fast. ✘ Doesn’t make sense! "Runs" is an action verb.)
5. Quick Tips
Linking verbs do not show action but instead describe a state or condition.
They are often followed by adjectives or nouns.
Use the replacement test to confirm if a verb is linking.
Now that you’ve completed this guide, practice using linking verbs in your own sentences. The more you practice, the easier it will become!
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