The verb be is the most important and useful verb in English. It shows identity, description, time, place, and more. This guide covers its forms and basic uses.
Forms
The verb be changes form depending on tense, number, and person. Here are the main forms you need to know.
| English Word(s) | English Word(s) | |
|---|---|---|
| be | been | |
| am | are | |
| is | was | |
| were | being |
Я сьогодні щасливий.
Usage
Use be to show identity, description, time, place, and to form passive and progressive structures. Choose the form that matches the subject and tense.
Identity
Use be to say who or what someone or something is. This can include names, jobs, roles, and categories.
Description
Use be to give information about appearance, qualities, feelings, and other characteristics. Adjectives, nouns, and phrases can follow.
Time and Place
Use be to tell time, date, and location. The verb agrees with the subject and the sentence can include expressions for time and place.
Passive Voice
Use be plus a past participle to form the passive voice, which focuses on the action or the receiver rather than the doer. The tense of be matches the sentence time.
Progressive Voice
Use be plus a present participle (-ing form) to show ongoing actions in the progressive (continuous) tense. The form of be signals the time frame.
Summary
The verb be is essential for identity, description, time, place, and for forming passive and progressive structures. Learn its forms and practice using them in sentences.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025