What are Linking Verbs? List and Examples
Now, the question arises: is ‘is’ a linking verb? Yes, “is” can be a linking verb. A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject of a sentence to a noun, pronoun, or adjective that renames or describes the subject. In this role, “is” functions as a linking verb.
For example:
- “She is a doctor.” In this sentence, “is” connects the subject “she” to the predicate noun “doctor.”
- “The cake is delicious.” In this sentence, “is” connects the subject “cake” to the predicate adjective “delicious.”
However, it’s important to note that “is” can also function as an auxiliary verb to form verb tenses, such as in the sentence “She is studying for her exams.” In this sentence, “is” is not a linking verb but an auxiliary verb used to form the present continuous tense.
What are the 12 Linking Verbs?
The 12 linking verbs in English are:
- be
- am
- is
- are
- was
- were
- being
- been
- seem
- appear
- become
- remain
These verbs do not show action, but instead link the subject of the sentence to a noun, pronoun, or adjective that describes or renames it.
For example, in the sentence “She is happy,” “is” is a linking verb that connects the subject “she” to the predicate adjective “happy.”
What are the 20 Linking Verbs?
While there are only 12 linking verbs in English, some grammar sources classify a few other verbs as potential linking verbs. Here are 20 verbs that are sometimes considered linking verbs:
- be
- am
- is
- are
- was
- were
- been
- being
- become
- seem
- appear
- taste
- feel
- smell
- look
- sound
- grow
- remain
- stay
- turn
The key characteristic of a linking verb is that it connects the subject of a sentence to a noun, pronoun, or adjective that describes or renames it.
Not all uses of these verbs will be linking verbs, as they can also function as action verbs or helping verbs in different contexts.
Is Linking a Verb or Action Verb?
Linking verbs, also known as copular verbs, are verbs that connect the subject of a sentence with a noun, pronoun, or adjective that renames or describes it.
Examples of linking verbs include “be,” “become,” “seem,” “appear,” “feel,” “sound,” “taste,” “smell,” “look,” and “remain.”
In this context, “linking” is not an action in the typical sense, but rather a way of connecting or relating one thing to another. Therefore, “linking” is not considered an action verb.
What Type of Verb is the Word ‘is?’
The word “is” is a linking verb, also known as a copular verb. Linking verbs are used to connect the subject of a sentence with a noun, pronoun, or adjective that describes or renames it.
In the sentence “She is happy,” “is” links the subject “she” with the adjective “happy.” Other common linking verbs include “am,” “are,” “was,” “were,” “become,” “seem,” “appear,” “feel,” “sound,” “taste,” “smell,” “look,” and “remain.”
What are the 11 Verbs that Can Be Action or Linking?
There are a few verbs in English that can be both action verbs and linking verbs, depending on their usage and the context of the sentence. The 11 most common verbs that can be both action verbs and linking verbs are:
- appear
- feel
- get
- grow
- look
- prove
- remain
- seem
- smell
- sound
- taste
When these verbs are used as linking verbs, they function to connect the subject of a sentence to a complement (usually a predicate adjective or a predicate noun) that describes or identifies the subject. For example:
- The cake looks delicious. (linking verb)
- She felt tired after the long day. (linking verb)
- The flowers smell sweet. (linking verb)
When these verbs are used as action verbs, they indicate a physical or mental action being performed by the subject. For example:
- She looked at the beautiful sunset. (action verb)
- He grew vegetables in his garden. (action verb)
- I tasted the soup to see if it needed more salt. (action verb)
What is the List of Linking Words?
Linking words, also known as transition words or connectives, are words or phrases that are used to connect ideas or thoughts within a sentence, between sentences, or between paragraphs. They help to create coherence and cohesion in writing and make it easier for the reader to follow the flow of ideas. Some common linking words and phrases include:
- Addition: also, furthermore, moreover, in addition, additionally, besides, too, as well as
- Contrast: but, however, nevertheless, nonetheless, on the other hand, in contrast, conversely, otherwise, whereas, while
- Cause and effect: therefore, consequently, thus, as a result, so, because, since, due to, owing to, as a result of, on account of
- Time: first, second, third, then, next, after, later, finally, meanwhile, during, at the same time, before, after, afterward
- Example: for example, for instance, such as, like, including
- Emphasis: indeed, in fact, certainly, without doubt, clearly, obviously, undoubtedly, truly, above all
- Conclusion: in conclusion, to sum up, in summary, as a result, finally, ultimately, to conclude, lastly, all in all
Note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many more linking words and phrases that can be used in writing.
The key is to choose the appropriate linking words and use them appropriately to enhance the flow and coherence of your writing.
In conclusion, the word “is” is a linking verb, which means it is used to connect the subject of a sentence to a noun, pronoun, or adjective that renames or describes it. As a linking verb, “is” does not denote an action, but rather serves as a linking or connecting element between the subject and its complement.
Understanding the function of “is” as a linking verb is important for constructing clear and effective sentences in English. By using “is” correctly in its linking verb role, you can help ensure that your writing is coherent and easily understood.
In terms of a call to action, I would encourage you to practice identifying linking verbs in your own writing and to experiment with using different linking words and phrases to improve the flow and coherence of your sentences.
By mastering the use of linking verbs and other linking words, you can become a more effective communicator and writer.
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January 30, 2024 at 9:31 pm