Action & Linking Verbs

Action Verbs

Every sentence, in order to be a sentence, must have both a subject and a verb. A verb tells what the subject is, does, has, or feels.

Most verbs are action words. Some refer to physical action -- action that can be seen by other people. Others refer to mental action -- action that cannot be seen.

Being (or linking) Verbs

Linking verbs express a state of being. These verbs do not refer to action of any sort. They simply tell what the subject is.

The most common linking verbs are the forms of the verb “be”

am is are was were be being been

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Other “being” verbs

Other “being” verbs include:

Appear, become, feel, grow, look, see, remain, smell, sound, stay, taste

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**Stay alert! These can sometimes be action verbs, depending on how they are used in the sentence

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Linking Verbs

A linking verb links the subject to another word in the sentence - either a noun that renames the subject or an adjective that describes the subject.

Peanut is a toad. (“toad” is a noun that renames Peanut)

Peanut is tiny. (“tiny” is an adjective that describes Peanut)

Either / or

Some verbs can function as either linking or action verbs:

The lily pond smells stagnant. (“smells” links the subject pond to an adjective that describes it)

The squirrel smells its food. (the subject, squirrel, is performing an action of smelling)

The gardner felt tired.

She felt the tree’s thick leaves.

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Let’s Practice! Action or linking?

1. He looked at the recipe.
2. Chicken tastes delicious.
3. Raymond became brave.
4. He smelled the garlic.
5. It smelled so good.
6. His task was successful.

Your assignment -- use the book!

On p. 173 in the grammar book, complete all 3 sections in your notebook.

For #15-20, Write the WHOLE sentence - fill in the verb & complete the thought.