The verb "be"

"I think, therefore I am." - René Descartes
In English the verb "to be" has many meanings. In the above quote, it means to exist. It may also be a linking and helping verb and is usually called the verb Be.
The Be verb has the most forms and is the most irregular verb in English.

Be – used in the imperative

  • Be quiet!
    • To be – infinitive
  • I want to be rich.

    Am – 1st person

  • I am home.

    Are – 2nd person

  • You are hungry.

    Is – 3rd person

  • He is a musician.

    • Was – 1st/3rd person past
  • I/He/She was home.

    Were – 2nd person past

  • You/They were upset.

    • Been – past participle

  • She has been tired lately.

    • Being – present participle

  • He is being silly now.
    • Study the nine basic forms. If this seems like a lot, don't worry! You don't need to know them all now.
    The verb "be" will become clearer as you see examples and practice.
    Remember: the verb "be" links the subject (S) to its complement or an adverb of place.
    Follow this pattern.

    S + Be + noun complement

    (I am human.)

    S + Be + adjective complement

    (She is happy.)

    S + Be + adverb of place

    (They are here.)

    You try. Write three sentences about yourself using the verb "be" and a complement or adverb. To make it harder, write about someone else in the past tense.
    Go to Verbs