The verb be is a core verb expressing existence, identity, and states of being. It links the subject to a description, condition, or reality, and is essential for forming sentences about who or what someone/something is, was, or will be.
- Expresses existence: “I am,” “They are.”
- Connects subjects to identities or states: “She is a teacher,” “We were happy.”
- Functions as a copula (linking verb) in many contexts.
Forms of "Be"
am, is, are, was, were, been, being
am, is, are
| Tense | Forms |
|---|---|
| Present | am, is, are |
| Past | was, were |
| Past Participle | been |
| Present Participle | being |
Use as a Copula
As a copula, be links the subject to a noun, adjective, or phrase that describes or identifies it.
- Subject + Be + Noun: She is a doctor.
- Subject + Be + Adjective: They are happy.
- Subject + Be + Prepositional Phrase: He is in the room.
Existence (Stating Being)
Be can also simply state existence or presence of the subject itself.
- Present: I am, You are, They are.
- Past: I was, You were, They were.
Practice
'Be' as a copula links the subject to a description or identification: 'She is smart,' 'They were teachers,' 'He is at home.'
'Be' expresses existence, links subjects to descriptions, and indicates identity or states of being.
am, is, are, was, were, been, being
Conclusion
The verb "be" is indispensable for expressing existence, identity, and states of being across times.
- Forms: am, is, are, was, were, been, being
- Connects subjects to who/what they are or how they feel
- Central for making statements about reality and existence