Linking Verb
One of the best pieces of advice writers give is that one’s writing should “Show, don’t tell”. This means that writers should do their best to describe the thing they want to write to create an apt visual impression. Writers use linking verbs to succinctly describe the subject of the sentence or statement.
1. Linking Verbs Template
2. Sentences with Linking Verbs
3. Linking Verbs Worksheet
4. Action Verbs and Linking Verbs Worksheet
5. Adjectives with Linking Verbs
6. Linking Verbs & Complements
7. Action or Linking Verbs Worksheet
8. Identifying Linking Verbs
9. Auxiliary or Linking Verbs
What Is a Linking Verb
A linking verb is a type of verb that will not actively show or preview the action but will instead detail the subject of the verb. This is juxtaposed with the other form of verbs called action verbs that will indicate the action the subject does in the sentence or statement.
How to Use Linking Verbs
Well-used linking verbs can help improve the readability and pacing of your text ensuring that the reader will obtain the information set out by the author with little to no room for misinterpretation. If you want to practice using linking verbs in your writing you may use the various worksheets and tools on the links above named Action or Linking Verbs Worksheet, Action Verbs and Linking Verbs Worksheet, and Linking Verbs Worksheet.
Step 1: Obtain or Look Up a List of Linking Verbs
Begin by looking up or obtaining a list of linking verbs that will help you easily insert said linking verbs into the statement or sentence. You may also familiarize yourself with the various linking verbs available to you.
Step 2: Select the Intention of The Sentence
You will need to first know what direction your sentence will be heading to, as this will dictate the type of linking verbs you will use. If you have an outline prepared for the sentence you are writing you may refer to that.
Step 3: Write Down the Subject
Begin by writing down the subject of your sentence or statement. This subject should be based on the intention of the sentence.
Step 4: Insert the Linking Verb
After you have written down the subject, you will need to insert the linking verb beside the sentence. The linking verb will act as the middle-man that will connect the subject to various descriptors.
Step 5: Create an Accompaniment for the Linking Verb
When you have finished writing down the linking verb, you must accompany said verb with a descriptor. This descriptor will relate back to the subject and will improve the details of said subject.
FAQs
What is the importance of linking verbs?
Linking verbs allows writers to add more details and information to the subject of the sentence or statement. This means that writers can add more subtext and context about the state of the subject in the statement with just a single verb or a small group of words. Not only will this make one’s text more interesting, but it will also allow the writer to reduce the number of words to “show don’t tell.” Therefore, a good writer will understand and know the importance of linking verbs as they will enhance and improve their text.
What are the most popular or widely used linking verbs?
Writers use a lot of linking verbs to improve and elevate the reader’s experience when they are reading their text. Some linking verbs are going to be more popular or widely used when compared to other linking verbs. The popular linking verbs are is, are, was, were, be, become, could be, can be, will be, would be, should be, shall be, maybe, might be, must be, have been, has been, and had been.
How do you identify a linking verb?
Linking verbs are basically a flavored way to connect a subject to a descriptor without sacrificing the flow of the sentence and statement. One of the best ways to identify and figure out a linking verb is to substitute the linking verb you are investigating with the words “is” or “are”. For example, Lily has been taking evening classes to improve her chances of being accepted into college. Using the identifying technique indicated above, we can replace the words “has been” in the statement with “is”. We transform the above sentence into “Lily is taking evening classes to improve her chances of being accepted into college.” If the sentence makes sense after the replacement, then the person has identified the linking verb.
Linking verbs are a type of verb a writer can use to link the subject to a specific descriptor. When properly done, the writer will improve the readability of their written text without sacrificing the overall flow and word count of the written text. Not only that but linking verbs can also improve the reading experience of the reader. Therefore it is very important for a writer to understand and utilize linking verbs in their writing.
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