Verbs are the most important part of the English language. They are used to express action, states of being, and other forms of communication. Whether you're just starting to learn English or already a fluent speaker, understanding verbs and their usage is essential to becoming a better communicator.

This reference will provide a comprehensive list of English verbs, including types of verbs, lists of common verbs, examples of verbs in sentences, and tips for using verbs correctly.

Types of Verbs List

Verbs come in many forms, and the type of verb you use will depend on the context. Here are the most common types of verbs:

Action Verbs

Action verbs are used to describe an activity or action. Examples of action verbs include run, jump, walk, talk, eat, drink, and more. Action verbs can be used in the present, past, and future tenses to describe an action that has taken place, is taking place, or will take place.

Auxiliary Verbs (Helping Verbs)

Auxiliary verbs, also known as helping verbs, are used to modify the meaning of a main verb. Examples of auxiliary verbs include can, should, must, will, could, and would. These verbs are used to express necessity, possibility, ability, or permission.

Linking Verbs

Linking verbs help us connect the subject of a sentence with an adjective, noun, or pronoun. Examples of linking verbs include be, seem, become, appear, feel, and smell. Linking verbs do not express action, they just describe the state or condition of the subject. 
 
 

List of Common Verbs

Now that you're familiar with the types of verbs, here is a list with some of the most commonly used verbs in English:

• Be
• Have
• Do
• Make
• Go
• Take
• Come
• See
• Get
• Give
• Know
• Think
• Find
• Say
• Tell
• Use
• Look
• Work
• Call
• Try
• Ask
• Leave
• Feel
• Put
• Mean
• Keep
• Let
• Begin
• Seem
• Help
• Talk
• Turn
• Start
• Might
• Show
• Hear
• Play
• Run
• Move
• Like
• Live
• Believe
• Hold
• Bring

List of Simple Verbs

Simple verbs are verbs that are used to express a single action or state. Here is a list of some of some common simple verbs in English:

• Run
• Jump
• Walk
• Talk
• Eat
• Drink
• Sleep
• Write
• Read
• Listen
• Laugh
• Cry
• Sit
• Stand
• Look
• Touch
• Understand
• Love
• Hate
• Smile
• Think
• Feel
• Know
• Believe
• Work

List of English Verbs for Action

Action verbs are used to describe an activity or action. Here is a list of common action verbs in English:

• Run
• Climb
• Swim
• Turn
• Dance
• Sing
• Laugh
• Cry
• Walk
• Skip
• Play
• Eat
• Drink
• Write
• Read
• Draw

List of Most Common Verbs for Linking

Linking verbs help subject of a sentence with an adjective, noun, or pronoun. Here is a list of common linking verbs in English:

• Be
• Seem
• Become
• Appear
• Remain
• Feel
• Smell
• Look
• Sound
• Taste
• Grow
• Stay

8

Basic Helping Verb List

Auxiliary verbs, also known as helping verbs, are used to modify the meaning of a main verb. Here is a list of common auxiliary verbs in English:

• Can
• Should
• Must
• Will
• Could
• Would
• May
• Might
• Shall
• Should

Examples of Verbs in Sentences

Now that you're familiar with the different types of verbs, let's look at some examples of how they are used in sentences.

Action verbs:

• I ran to the store.
• He jumped off the trampoline.
• She walked to the park.

Auxiliary (helping) verbs:

• I can help you.
• You should call me.
• We must leave now.

Linking verbs:

• She appears happy.
• He seems tired.
• They became friends.

Here are some more complex sentences with verbs:

• I could have gone to the store, but I decided to stay home.
• He must have forgotten his wallet because he couldn't pay for the meal.
• She should have called before coming over.

Tips for Using Verbs

Now that you understand verbs, here are a few tips for using them effectively:

1. Make sure you are using the correct verb tense.
2. Pay attention to the subject of the sentence and make sure the verb agrees with it.
3. Use action verbs to create vivid descriptions and make your writing more interesting.
4. Avoid using passive voice and try to use active voice instead.
5. Be careful not to overuse the same verbs.

Summary

Verbs help us express action, states of being, and other forms of communication. Knowing the different types of verbs, lists of common verbs, and examples of verbs in sentences will help you become a better communicator. Use the tips provided in this reference to help you use verbs more effectively!