A linking verb connects the subject of a sentence with a word that gives information about the subject, such as a condition or relationship. They do not show any action; they simply link the subject with the rest of the sentence. For example, in the sentence "They are a problem," the word are is the linking verb that connects they and problem to show the relationship between the two words. The most common linking verbs are forms of the verb "to be": am, is, are, was, were, being, been. See more linking verb examples to fully understand the concept.
Linking Verb Examples Sentences
Since we've answered the question of "What is a linking verb?" Here are some examples of linking verbs used in sentences with the linking verbs in bold:
- William is excited about his promotion.
- She seems upset about the announcement.
- The eggs smell rotten.
- He went red after tripping on the rug.
- Your wedding plans sound nice.
- You look exhausted after studying all night.
- I am putty in his hands.
- Maria might have been forthcoming with the news.
- Tom acted nervous when the teacher found the note.
- The audience fell silent when the conductor walked on stage.
- Dreams come true when we believe in them.
- The crowd stayed calm in spite of the imminent threat.
- All the children seem satisfied with the bouncy castle.
- Bob felt sleepy after eating the whole pizza.
- The cinnamon rolls taste heavenly.
- Building the house was difficult for them.
- Anthony had a dream.
- The spectators remained silent after the injury on the field.
- He became suspicious when he saw the safe was open.
- All the kittens were playful.
- The theater gets dark when the show is about to begin.
- Some couples are lucky enough to grow old together.
- I feel worthy when the boss compliments me.
- The weather was accommodating and the party continued.
- You are being foolish to believe her.
- Mary was nostalgic on her 50th birthday.
- Your friend might be disappointed if you don't go.
- Sometimes, kids are foolish.
- We are dismayed about the foreclosure.
- The tests indicate that your child is gifted.
- Martin is fond of spicy food.
- Jumping into a pond could be dangerous.
- Most children get cranky when they are sleepy.
- After the snowstorm, the roads were slippery.
- A flaw in the design appeared to be the cause of the collapse.
- The vegetables in the bin looked disgusting and spoiled.
- They shall be happy forever after.
- Riding in a car will be safer with a seat belt.
- The police department is getting tough on crime.
- She remains faithful, even though it has been two years since he left.
Linking Verb PDF
While the most common linking verbs are am, is, are, was, were, being, and been, sensory words like look and felt are also used as linking verbs. Get a list of common linking verbs just download the PDF.
Using Linking Verbs
Adding linking verbs to your writing is important for a sentence to make sense. Could you imagine sentences without them? To learn more about this type of verb and its usage, read all about linking verbs. Get the basics of what they are and how to identify them.