Answered By: Rachel Willard Last Updated: May 02, 2017 Views: 2811
A verb is the action or state of being in a sentence. Verbs can be expressed in different tenses, depending on when the action is being performed.
Here are some examples:
Example sentence: Jennifer walked to the store.
In this sentence, walked is the verb that shows an action. It happened in the past, so it is a past-tense verb.
Example sentence: You were a great singer.
In this sentence, the verb is were. It shows a state of being that was in the past, so it is a past-tense verb.
Example sentence: After lunch, I will call my mother.
In this sentence, will call is the verb phrase. It shows that something will happen in the future, so it is a future-tense verb.
Example sentence: Mosquito bites itch.
In this sentence, itch is the verb. It shows a current state of being, so it is a present-tense verb.
Additional Resources:
- Find out more about verb tenses.
- Take a look at some explanations of parts of speech.
- Learn how verbs and subjects relate.
- Watch the recorded webinar "Mastering the Mechanics Part One: Simple Sentences".
- Learn more about the Writing Center's self-paced grammar modules.
Further Questions?
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Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s homepage.
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