The verb see means to perceive something with the eyes or to notice or experience something. It is an irregular verb with three main forms:
- Base form: see
- Past simple: saw
- Past participle: seen
Usage
The verb see can be used in several ways:
- To perceive with the eyes: “I see a bird.”
- To understand or realize: “I see what you mean.”
- To meet or visit someone: “I will see my friend tomorrow.”
- To attend or witness an event: “I saw the concert last night.”
Summary
- see (base form)
- saw (past simple)
- seen (past participle, used with have/has/had)
Example Sentences
- Base form: I see a rainbow in the sky.
- Past simple: She saw a movie last night.
- Past participle: They have seen that play before.
Tip
Remember:
- Use “saw” for simple past tense (no auxiliary verb).
- Use “seen” with auxiliary verbs have/has/had (present perfect, past perfect, etc.).
Summary
- See = base form (present)
- Saw = past simple
- Seen = past participle (used with have/has/had)
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
