“Learning English means understanding linking verbs. These verbs connect the sentence’s subject to more details.“
Knowing the difference between linking and action verbs helps you write better. This guide will help you learn about linking verbs and their role in English grammar.

A colorful and artistic representation of linking verbs, featuring a vibrant tree with branches labeled with various linking verbs, such as “is,” “are,” “was,” and “seem,” surrounded by an abstract background of swirling colors and shapes symbolizing connection and continuity.
Linking verbs are key in sentences. They help you write and speak better. This guide is for everyone, from beginners to advanced learners. It will teach you how to use linking verbs well.
Key Takeaways
- Linking verbs connect the subject to additional information in a sentence
- Understanding the difference between linking and action verbs is essential for effective sentence construction
- Linking verbs help you express yourself more clearly and accurately in English
- Mastering linking verbs can improve your writing and speaking skills
- Linking verbs are a crucial part of English grammar, and learning about them can enhance your language skills
- This guide will provide you with a comprehensive list and explanation of linking verbs
- By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to identify and use linking verbs with confidence
What Are Linking Verbs?
Linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence to more details. They are key to understanding the linking verbs definition. These verbs link the subject to extra information.
Linking verbs are different from action verbs. Action verbs show what’s happening. Linking verbs show what the subject is like. For example, “She is a doctor” uses “is” to link “She” to “a doctor.”
Basic Definition and Function
The linking verbs definition is clear when you see examples of linking verbs. Verbs like “to be,” “seem,” and “appear” link subjects to more info. They help make sentences more detailed and complex.
How Linking Verbs Differ from Action Verbs
Action verbs show actions or activities. They make sentences lively. But they’re not the same as linking verbs. For example, “She runs every morning” uses “runs” to show an action.
The Role of Linking Verbs in Sentences
Linking verbs are vital for adding more info to sentences. Knowing about linking verbs definition and examples of linking verbs helps make sentences more interesting. They add context and details, making them crucial in English.

A colorful, abstract representation of linking verbs, featuring interconnected circles or lines symbolizing relationships, with floating images of actions and states like “is,” “are,” and “seem” in a dynamic and harmonious design. Use vibrant gradients and smooth transitions to convey fluidity and connection.
Verb Type | Example | Function |
Linking Verb | is | Connects subject to additional information |
Action Verb | runs | Describes an action or activity |
Common Types of Linking Verbs
Exploring linking verbs, you find many types with different roles. The types of linking verbs include state of being verbs, sensory verbs, and verbs of becoming. Knowing these groups helps you use common linking verbs well in writing and talking.
Common linking verbs link the sentence’s subject to more details. Here are some examples:
- State of being verbs: “I am happy,” “She is a doctor”
- Sensory verbs: “The cake tastes delicious,” “The music sounds amazing”
- Verbs of becoming: “He became a successful entrepreneur,” “They became friends”
Using these types of linking verbs improves your communication. They help share your thoughts clearly in stories, emails, or talks. Common linking verbs are key to expressing your feelings and ideas.

A vibrant classroom scene filled with diverse students gathered around a large chalkboard, where colorful illustrations of various linking verbs are depicted as fun characters, showcasing connections between subjects and predicates. Bright colors, engaging expressions, and a lively atmosphere, emphasizing the concept of linking verbs in action.
Type of Linking Verb | Example | Description |
State of being | “I am happy” | Describes a state of existence or condition |
Sensory | “The cake tastes delicious” | Relates to the senses (taste, sound, smell, etc.) |
Verb of becoming | “He became a successful entrepreneur” | Indicates a change in state or condition |
The Most Frequently Used Linking Verbs in English
Linking verbs are key in everyday talk. You’ll see state of being verbs like “to be” a lot. It has forms like “am,” “is,” and “are.” These verbs link the sentence’s subject to more info.
Sensory verbs like “look” and “feel” are also common. They tell us how something looks or feels. For instance, “The cake looks delicious” or “The music feels uplifting.” Verbs of becoming like “grow” and “remain” show change or state.

A colorful illustration of a tree with various branches labeled with different linking verbs, such as “is,” “are,” “seem,” and “become,” surrounded by vibrant leaves representing examples of sentences using those verbs, set against a bright sky background.
- to be (am, is, are)
- to seem
- to appear
- to feel
- to look
- to sound
- to taste
- to smell
These verbs are vital for sentences about being, looks, or feelings. They make your sentences more vivid and engaging. This helps you share your message clearly.
State of Being Verbs Explained
Learning about linking verbs means knowing state of being verbs. These verbs describe a condition or situation. They are like a bridge between the subject and more info. Examples include am, is, are, was, and were.
Linking verbs for kids can be fun. For example, “I am happy” or “She is a student.” These show how verbs describe feelings, jobs, or traits.
A serene classroom environment with a blackboard illustrating various state of being verbs, soft light filtering through windows, a cozy atmosphere, and scattered colorful art supplies on desks.
- I am a student.
- He is a teacher.
- They are friends.
These examples show how verbs link subjects to more info. Using them makes sentences clear and to the point.
State of being verbs are key in English. Knowing them well can boost your writing and talking skills. With practice, you’ll get better at using them.
Understanding Sensory Linking Verbs
Exploring linking verbs, you find sensory verbs are key. They describe sensory experiences. These verbs make your writing vivid and engaging.
Verbs like appear, seem, and look describe how things look. For example, “The sunset appears to be setting over the horizon.” They help your readers see what you’re writing about.
Verbs Related to Feeling
Verbs like feel, seem, and appear describe emotions. For instance, “I feel happy when I’m surrounded by nature.” They help you share feelings and create a mood.
Verbs Related to Sound
Verbs like sound, seem, and appear describe sounds. For example, “The music sounds beautiful.” They add to the atmosphere and mood of your writing.
A vibrant, abstract representation of sensory experiences, featuring elements symbolizing sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch; swirling colors and shapes that evoke emotions and sensations, with flowing forms merging into one another, creating a harmonious blend of the five senses.
Using sensory linking verbs makes your writing rich and immersive. They help you describe appearance, feeling, and sound. This makes your writing vivid and engaging for your readers.
Verb | Example Sentence |
appear | The sunset appears to be setting over the horizon. |
feel | I feel happy when I’m surrounded by nature. |
sound | The music sounds beautiful. |
How to Identify Linking Verbs in Sentences
To identify linking verbs, you need to know their role in a sentence. They link the subject to more info, like a predicate nominative or adjective. Try a linking verbs quiz to see how good you are at spotting them.
Here are some tips to help you find linking verbs:
- Look for verbs that connect the subject to a noun or adjective, like “to be” or “to seem”.
- Check if the verb describes a state of being, like “appear” or “feel”.
- Look at the sentence structure. See if the verb links the subject to more info.
In “She is a doctor”, “is” links “she” to “a doctor”. You can find more linking verb examples in grammar guides or online.
By doing quizzes and exercises, you’ll get better at finding linking verbs. This will help you understand sentence structure better.

A colorful and visually engaging quiz layout featuring various linking verbs illustrated through abstract symbols and images, focusing on the concept of connection and relationships. Include a diverse array of objects representing different states of being, such as a sun for ‘is’, a bridge for ‘seems’, and a cloud for ‘becomes’. The background should be dynamic and vibrant, suggesting an educational atmosphere, with playful elements that invite the viewer to explore linking verbs creatively.
Verb | Example Sentence | Linking Verb Function |
to be | He is a teacher. | Connects subject to predicate nominative |
to seem | She seems happy. | Connects subject to predicate adjective |
Common Mistakes with Linking Verbs
Using linking verbs can be tricky. It’s easy to mix them up with action verbs. This can mess up the meaning of your sentence. Knowing how to use linking verbs right is key to avoid mistakes.
Some common mistakes with linking verbs include:
- Using action verbs instead of linking verbs, which can change the meaning of the sentence
- Having tense agreement issues, where the verb tense doesn’t match the subject
- Having subject-complement problems, where the subject and complement don’t agree
To avoid these mistakes, it’s important to understand linking verbs. Doing exercises and quizzes can help you get better. Knowing these mistakes helps you write better and communicate clearly.
An artistic representation of common mistakes with linking verbs, featuring a whimsical classroom scene with exaggerated scenarios: a character confused about linking verbs, incorrectly connecting actions with ‘is,’ a colorful diagram illustrating correct and incorrect usages, mismatched objects symbolizing confusion, vibrant colors highlighting the learning atmosphere, and playful characters representing students engaged in the lesson.
By knowing these mistakes and practicing, you can write better. Linking verbs are very important. They help you share your ideas clearly in your writing.
Mastering Linking Verbs in Writing
To get better at writing, learning about linking verbs is key. It’s about picking the right verb to link the subject to the complement. Think about the context and the connection between the subject and the complement when using linking verbs in sentences.
There are many types of linking verbs, like “to be” forms, sensory verbs, and verbs of becoming. Here are some tips to master these verbs:
- Use linking verbs to make your writing more varied and interesting.
- Don’t overuse verbs like “to be.” Choose more vivid verbs instead.
- Try different types of linking verbs in your writing to get better.
By following these tips and practicing often, you’ll get better at writing. Make sure your sentences are clear and choose the right types of linking verbs for the situation.
A vibrant classroom scene filled with colorful charts and diagrams illustrating various linking verbs, surrounded by students engaged in writing exercises, a large chalkboard displaying examples, and an inviting atmosphere of creativity and learning.
Practice Exercises and Examples
To get better at linking verbs, practicing is key. Start with practice exercises for linking verbs to learn the basics. A linking verbs worksheet can help you understand linking verbs definition better.
Here are some exercises to try:
- Complete sentences with the correct form of the linking verb
- Identify the linking verb in a given sentence
- Write your own sentences using linking verbs
Doing these exercises will make you more comfortable with linking verbs. Always check the linking verbs definition and examples to keep your skills sharp.

A vibrant and educational scene depicting various linking verbs as colorful flowers in a garden, each flower labeled with a different linking verb, surrounded by a bright sky and soft clouds, symbolizing clarity and understanding in language learning.
As you get better, try more challenging exercises. This could be making sentences with many clauses or using linking verbs in different tenses. With regular practice, you’ll be able to use linking verbs effectively.
Exercise Type | Description |
Basic Recognition | Identify linking verbs in sentences |
Sentence Construction | Write sentences using linking verbs |
Advanced Usage | Use linking verbs in different tenses and clauses |
USA States Alphabetical List and Abbreviations You Must Know
Tips for Teaching Linking Verbs
Teaching linking verbs needs a good plan. Start by explaining what linking verbs are and how they’re different from action verbs. This helps students see how linking verbs connect the subject to more info.
Make learning fun with linking verbs activities. You can do things like find linking verbs in sentences or make new sentences with them. For kids, use pictures, songs, and games to help them learn.
Here are some good ways to teach linking verbs:
- Use real-life examples to show how linking verbs work
- Give lots of practice to help students get better
- Have students make their own sentences with linking verbs
By using these tips, you can help your students learn about linking verbs. Make sure learning is fun and give lots of chances to practice.
A vibrant classroom scene filled with diverse students engaged in various linking verb activities, such as sorting cards with linking verbs, completing colorful worksheets, and working together on a giant linking verb chart. The atmosphere is lively and collaborative, with posters of linking verbs adorning the walls and a whiteboard filled with examples. Bright colors and educational tools like pencils, erasers, and charts create an inviting learning environment.
With the right way, your students will get good at linking verbs and improve their language skills.
Strategy | Description |
Real-life examples | Use everyday situations to show linking verbs |
Practice exercises | Give students chances to practice using linking verbs |
Student-created sentences | Encourage students to make their own sentences with linking verbs |
Using Linking Verbs in Academic Writing
In academic writing, linking verbs are key for showing complex ideas and how they relate. It’s important to know the difference between formal vs. informal usage of these verbs. This helps keep your writing’s tone and credibility right.
When writing for school, style considerations like clarity and variety are crucial. Linking verbs help connect ideas and show their relationships. For instance, in a research paper, you might use “is” or “seems” to describe study results. But in a blog, you might use more casual language.
Here are some tips for using linking verbs in academic writing:
- Use formal linking verbs like “is” or “appears” for complex relationships.
- Avoid informal verbs like “looks” or “feels” in formal writing.
- Vary your linking verbs to make your writing clearer and more interesting.

An open book with pages displaying various linking verbs, surrounded by abstract representations of academic concepts like essays, research papers, and charts, set against a scholarly backdrop with soft lighting and a deep wood desk.
By using these tips and thinking about the formal vs. informal and style aspects of linking verbs, you can get better at academic writing. You’ll be able to share your ideas clearly with your audience.
Linking Verb | Formal/Informal | Example Sentence |
is | Formal | The research suggests that the new policy is effective. |
seems | Formal | The data seems to indicate a positive correlation between the variables. |
looks | Informal | The new smartphone looks really cool. |
Key Insight
What are linking verbs?
Linking verbs connect the subject of a sentence to more info. This can be a description or a state of being. They are different from action verbs, which show an action happening.
How do linking verbs differ from action verbs?
Linking verbs don’t show an action. They link the subject to a complement, like a noun or adjective. Action verbs, however, describe actions or events.
What are some common examples of linking verbs?
Common linking verbs include “to be” (am, is, are, was, were), “to become,” “to seem,” “to appear,” “to feel,” and “to look.” These verbs tell us about the subject’s state or identity.
Why are linking verbs important in English grammar?
Linking verbs are key to clear sentences. They show the subject’s state or condition. Knowing how to use them is vital for good English communication.
How can I identify linking verbs in sentences?
Look for verbs that show a state or condition, not an action. Try substituting “is” or “am” for the verb. Or see if “to be” fits without changing the sentence’s meaning.
What are some common mistakes people make with linking verbs?
Mistakes include mixing linking verbs with action verbs. Also, issues with tense and subject-complement agreement. Focus on the verb’s role in the sentence to avoid these.
How can I practice using linking verbs effectively in my writing?
Practice by identifying linking verbs in sentences. Try writing with different linking verbs. Also, pay attention to your use and get feedback to improve.
Are there different types of linking verbs?
Yes, there are many types. These include state of being verbs, sensory verbs, and verbs of becoming. Knowing these can make your writing better.
Conclusion
Mastering linking verbs is key for clear communication in English. You’ve learned about “to be” and other verbs. This knowledge helps you use English better.
By knowing common linking verbs, you can share thoughts and feelings clearly. Keep a linking verbs list handy. Practice using common linking verbs often. This will make your English skills better.

Hi! I’m Zadie-Smith, the author of Grammar Glides. I create easy-to-follow resources to help you master English grammar with confidence. Join me on my website for tips and tools to make your English learning journey smooth and enjoyable!