Present Simple with Non-Action Verbs

Present Simple with Non-Action VerbsNow that you know how to use the verb to be you need to learn how to use the present simple with non-action verbs. Keep reading to learn how use this verb form. Be careful not to confuse this verb tense with the present continuous.

Form:

  • I / You / We/ They + V1
  • He / She / It + V1 + s

What are non-action verbs?

Non-action verbs are verbs that cannot be used in the continuous, also called progressive, tense. Keep reading to learn the different uses for non-action verbs.

Uses:

1. Some verbs only describe a condition, state or belief. These verbs are not used in the continuous form.

Example words: like, love, hate, want, know, believe, hear…

Example sentences:

I like English. not I am liking English.

She loves me. not She is loving me.

I know him. not I am knowing him.

2. Some verbs have both action and non-action meanings. Be careful not to confuse the two forms below. When we use these words to describe an action we are using the present continuous, which describes an action taking place at that moment.

Example words: think, look, feel, have, be…

Example sentences:

I think about my life. (non-action) or I am thinking about my life at the moment. (action)

The flower looks beautiful (non-action) or I am looking at you now. (action)

She is funny. (non-action) or She is being funny. (action)

That’s all for today! If you have more questions, just email me or comment below. I will be happy to help you learn English and can even prepare a lesson just for you.

Stay posted for our next lesson and don’t forget to turn your Language On! You can download this lesson for free by clicking here.

Have a nice day. #TurnYourLanguageOn

Do you need to improve your English? See the locations of our english language schools in the United States.


INSTANT
ANSWERS