VERBS OVERVIEW
A verb tells what a subject does. Verbs can be used in the past, present of future tense.
Some verbs are irregular, meaning they use special forms to show the past tense (ex.
speak…spoke). Verbs should be used in either a singular or plural form to be in
agreement with their subjects.
TYPES OF VERBS:
Action verbs tell what nouns or pronouns do.
Ex. Ian exploded with laughter.
What did Ian do?
 Transitive are action verbs that can have a direct object.
Ex. Tom swatted a fly.
Test = ask WHAT? Swatted what?
 Intransitive are action verbs that can’t have a direct object.
Ex. Water evaporates.
Linking Verbs link a subject with the information about it.
Ex. Mike is handsome. OR She appears flustered.
Helping Verbs help the main verb do its job and contribute to the tense of the verb
phrase.
Ex. It will rain tomorrow.
(HV) (MV)
Phrasal Verbs need a preposition to make sense.
Ex. Let’s make up an answer.
TRICKY WORDS THAT AREN”T VERBS!
Larry wants to be a star.
He should not go on vacation with us.