Linking Verbs: Explanation
A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject of a sentence to a subject complement, which can be a noun, pronoun, or adjective. Linking verbs do not show action; instead, they express a state of being or a condition.
Common examples of linking verbs include: be, seem, become, appear, look, feel, sound, taste, smell, remain, grow, turn, appear, and become.
When using linking verbs, it is essential to remember that they do not indicate an action. Instead, they serve to link the subject to the subject complement, allowing us to describe or identify the subject in more detail.
Study Guide: Identifying Linking Verbs
- Read through a sentence and identify the verb.
- Determine whether the verb expresses an action or a state of being.
- If the verb connects the subject to a subject complement (noun, pronoun, or adjective), it is likely a linking verb.
- Practice identifying linking verbs in sentences to reinforce understanding.
Study Guide: Using Linking Verbs
- Understand the function of linking verbs in connecting the subject to a subject complement.
- Practice using linking verbs in sentences to describe or identify the subject.
- Experiment with different subject complements, such as adjectives or nouns, to understand how linking verbs can be used to provide more information about the subject.
By understanding and practicing the identification and use of linking verbs, students will gain a deeper comprehension of how these verbs function in the English language.
