Linking Verbs

Also known as copular verbs, are verbs that connect the subject of a sentence with a subject complement, which describes or identifies the subject.
Unlike action verbs, which express actions performed by the subject, linking verbs serve to link or equate the subject with additional information.


Common linking verbs in English include
be verbs

is
am
are
was
were
be
being
been


As well as other verbs such as

seem
appear
become
feel
look
sound
smell
taste


Here's how linking verbs function in a sentence

Subject +
Linking Verb +
Subject Complement


The subject complement is a noun, pronoun, or adjective that follows the linking verb and provides more information about the subject.
It completes the meaning of the sentence by describing or identifying the subject.


Example with an adjective complement
➧ She is happy.
The linking verb is connects the subject she with the adjective complement happy describing her state of being.


Example with a noun complement
➧ He is a doctor.
The linking verb is connects the subject he with the noun complement doctor identifying his profession.


No Action

Linking verbs do not show action but rather express a state of being or a relationship between the subject and the complement.
➧ The flowers smell lovely.
The linking verb smell connects the subject flowers with the adjective complement lovely describing their scent.


Consistency

Linking verbs often express characteristics conditions or states that remain relatively constant.
➧ She seems tired.
The linking verb seems connects the subject she with the adjective complement tired describing her current condition.


Forms of "be" as Linking Verbs

They link the subject to a complement that describes or identifies it.
Example with "am"
➧ I am a teacher.
The linking verb am connects the subject I with the noun complement teacher identifying my profession.


In summary, linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence with a subject complement, which provides more information about the subject.
They do not express action but rather describe states of being, conditions, or relationships.
Understanding linking verbs helps in constructing sentences that accurately convey information about the subject.
More Lessons ➧ Here


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