Eng 99
Summary Signal Verbs
When you write the first sentence of your summary, you want to use precise language. An
excellent start on your journey to precision is choosing an exact verb (rather than writing
vague verbs such as “writes,” “writes about,” “says” or “tells”.) These are called “signal
verbs” because they signal the author’s attitude or approach to what he or she says. These
verbs are in the present tense, typical of writing in the humanities.
Author is
neutral
Author infers
or suggests
Author argues Author is uneasy Author agrees
or disparaging
Comments
Analyzes
Asserts
Belittles
Admits
Describes
Asks
Claims
Bemoans
Agrees
Explains
Assesses
Contends
Complains
Concedes
Illustrates
Concludes
Defends
Condemns
Grants
Notes
Considers
Holds
Deplores
Observes
Finds
Insists
Deprecates
Points Out
Predicts
Maintains
Derides
Records
Proposes
Disagrees
Relates
Reveals
Laments
Reports
Shows
Warns
Speculates
Suggests