The verb "be"

Master the most fundamental and irregular verb in English. Learn all forms and usage patterns!

🤔 "I think, therefore I am." - René Descartes
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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.
Important: The Be verb has the most forms and is the most irregular verb in English.

Forms of the Verb "Be"

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 tip: 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.

Basic Patterns with "Be"

Pattern 1: Subject + Be + Noun Complement
S + Be + noun complement
(I am human.)
Pattern 2: Subject + Be + Adjective Complement
S + Be + adjective complement
(She is happy.)
Pattern 3: Subject + Be + Adverb of Place
S + Be + adverb of place
(They are here.)
🎯 Your Turn!
Exercise: 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.