Using the correct verb form is like adding the right seasoning to a dish. Without it, the flavor is off. Similarly, in English, using the wrong verb form can make your sentence unclear. In this article, IDP will help you understand the various types of verb forms and how to use them correctly across different sentence structures, so you can communicate more confidently.
1. What Is a Verb Form?
A verb is a word used to describe an action, a state, or an occurrence. A verb form refers to the various forms a verb can take, such as the base form, past simple, or present participle. These verb forms help indicate the time and nature of the action and clarify the meaning of the sentence.
2. Common Verb Forms in English
Verb forms change based on context and meaning. Below are the key types of verb forms in English:
Base Form (Infinitive)
Infinitives come in two types: with to (to verb) and without to (bare infinitive).
To-infinitive: Often used to express purpose or intent. Example: He made a promise to help her with the project.
Bare infinitive: Typically follows modal verbs or verbs of perception. Example: You should start writing your report now.
Third-Person Singular Present
In the present simple tense, verbs in the third-person singular take -s or -es, depending on the ending.
Example: She works hard on her IELTS preparation daily.
Past Simple
Used to describe actions that happened and ended in the past. Regular verbs take -ed; irregular verbs have unique forms.
Example: She visited the museum last weekend.
Past Participle
Used in perfect tenses and passive voice. Regular verbs add -ed, while irregular verbs require memorization of the V3 form.
Example: She has completed the essay on time.
Present Participle
Formed by adding -ing to the base verb. It appears in continuous tenses and can act as an adjective.
Example: The movie was so entertaining that I watched it twice.
3. Verb Form Exercise with Answers
Task: Complete the sentences with the correct verb form.
He ______ (to prepare) for his upcoming IELTS exam every evening.
Last weekend, they ______ (to explore) a beautiful nature reserve in the countryside.
I ______ (to visit) Australia twice in my life.
By the time she arrives, we ______ (to complete) the group project.
Next summer, we ______ (to embark) on a journey across Europe.
______ regularly is essential for maintaining good health and fitness.
The novel ______ (to translate) into several languages to reach a global audience.
She always ______ (to enjoy) practising yoga early in the morning.
While I ______ (to bake) a cake, the phone suddenly rang.
They ______ (to work) for the same company since they graduated from university.
Answer Key:
prepares
explored
have visited
will have completed
will embark
Exercising
been translated
enjoys
was baking
have been working
Master Verb Forms in English with IDP
Mastering verb forms in English is essential for writing accurate sentences and improving both speaking and writing skills. Each form plays a crucial role in expressing time, action, and attitude. Practice regularly to build fluency and confidence in any conversation or academic task.
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