In this lesson we’re looking at State Verbs in English.
We’re learning about what a STATE verb is, and looking at the difference between a STATE VERB and an ACTION VERB. We’re also looking at the special verbs LOOK and FEEL.
Have fun with the lesson, and don’t forget to try the quizzes by clicking on their links below
– James.
Lesson Contents
What is a State Verb?
A STATE VERB is a verb that cannot be used in continuous tenses. This is because it describes a state and not an action. Here are a few examples of STATE VERBS :
hate / like / love / need / prefer / want
believe / know / mean / realise / remember / suppose / understand
belong / consist / contain / fit / seem
I love you so much!
(not “I am loving.”)
The dress fits you very well.
(not “The dress is fitting…”)
I don’t believe in a god.
(not “I am not believing…”)
Decide if the STATE VERB sentences are right or wrong.
Mixed Verbs
A mixed verb is one that can be a state verb, or an action verb depending on its meaning. Have a look at these sentences:
I think that exercise is very important.
(this is a state verb because I’m giving my opinion.)
I‘m thinking about you!
(this is an action verb)
Be very careful, there are many other verbs like THINK that can be state verbs, or action verbs.
Match the halves of the STATE VERB sentences. You’ll be given two similar sentences that use MIXED VERBS, and you have to match the STATE VERBS, and ACTION VERBS to their sentences.
You are + adjective / You are being + adjective
“You are + adjective” describes a person. “You are being + adjective” describes a temporary behaviour. Have a look at these examples:
I like Bob, he‘s friendly.
(Bob is friendly all the time)
Bob is being friendly.
(just at the moment, normally he’s not friendly)
You are rude!
(all the time)
You are being rude!
(at the moment)
Complete the sentences. Remember what you’ve learnt about how to form sentences that describe temporary behaviours.
Look and Feel
LOOK and FEEL can be used with either the Present Simple or the Present Continuous to describe someone / something now:
You look great. ↔ You are looking great.
How do you feel? ↔ How are you feeling?
However, if you want to describe something that repeats, use the Present Simple:
I usually feel tired at work.
(not “I am usually feeling tired at work.”)
Recap
- A state verb is a verb that cannot be used in continuous tenses.
- A mixed verb is one that can be a state verb, or an action verb depending on its meaning.
- “You are + adjective” describes a person. “You are being + adjective” means a temporary behaviour.
- LOOK and FEEL can be used with either the Present Simple or the Present Continuous.
- But, if you want to describe something that repeats, use the Present Simple.
