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Action verbs are words that describe actions. Action verb that describes what the subject of a sentence is doing. This article will teach you about action verbs, how they work, and why they are important. Understanding action verbs allows you to communicate clearly. They make your writing more appealing and engaging. So, by understanding action verbs, you can improve your writing abilities.
What is an Action Verb?
An action verb shows what the subject of a sentence is doing. It can’t link the subject to more information. Its only function is to tell you about the action. For example, “run,” “eat,” and “jump” are action verbs because they describe actions. They don’t connect the subject to something else. Instead, they show what the subject is actively doing. So, if you see a word like “run,” “eat,” or “jump” in a sentence, it’s an action verb. Its main purpose is to describe the action happening in that sentence.
Definition of an Action Verb
Merriam-Webster Dictionary says an action verb is defined as “a verb that expresses action. ‘Drive’ in ‘We often drive past their house’ and ‘think’ in ‘Let’s think about the problem’ are both action verbs.”
Examples of Action Verbs used in sentences
Action verbs are words that show action or describe what someone or something is doing. They usually come right after the subject in a sentence. Here are some examples to understand how they work:
- Mom got home at 5:20 p.m. (In this sentence, “got” is the action verb.)
- The little girl hurried to her mother when she saw her. (Here, “hurried” and “saw” are the action verbs, showing what the girl did and what she noticed.)
- Let’s bring the injured dog to the vet hospital. (The action verb here is “bring,” indicating what we should do with the dog.)
- Cherina is singing A. R. Rahman’s latest song. (In this sentence, “singing” is the action verb, showing what Cherina is currently doing.)
- I wrote a letter to the bank manager asking for a bank statement. (Here, “wrote” is the action verb, describing what I did.)
| Also Check: | |
| Main Verb | Transitive and Intransitive Verbs |
|---|---|
| Regular Verbs | Irregular Verbs |
| Finite Verbs | Non Finite Verbs |
| Linking Verbs | Stative Verbs |
| Verb | Verb Form |
| Helping Verb | Auxiliary Verbs |
| Modal Verbs | Phrasal Verbs |
Everyday Action Verbs List for Kids
Here are few action verbs that you can use in everyday communication:
| Run | Walk | Talk |
| Share | Sit | Stand |
| Jump | Keep | Bring |
| Buy | Drink | Chew |
| Sing | Speak | Drive |
| Travel | Teach | Learn |
| Play | Dance | Skip |
| Try | Move | Lift |
| Make | Cook | Read |
| Write | Test | Ring |
| Call | Clear | Stitch |
Importance of Actions Verbs
Here are some points through which you’ll understand the importance of actions verbs easily:
- Clarity and Precision: Action verbs serve as the backbone of clarity in writing. Unlike passive verbs, which can obscure the subject’s action, action verbs vividly portray what the subject is doing. For instance, instead of saying “The ball was thrown by him,” saying “He threw the ball” provides a clearer picture of the action.
- Engaging Readers: Action verbs have an incredible ability to hold readers’ attention. They infuse energy and dynamism into sentences, making them more compelling to read. When readers encounter action verbs, they feel drawn into the narrative, actively participating in the unfolding events.
- Conveying Purpose: Every sentence serves a purpose, and action verbs play a crucial role in articulating that purpose. Whether it’s to inform, persuade, entertain, or instruct, action verbs drive the message forward with intent and conviction. For example, a sentence like “She convinced the team to pursue the innovative idea” clearly communicates the purpose of persuasion.
- Enhancing Readability: Action verbs contribute to the overall readability of the text. By succinctly expressing the subject’s action, they prevent sentences from becoming convoluted or monotonous. Readers can quickly grasp the essence of the sentence without getting bogged down by unnecessary words or passive constructions.
- Evoking Imagery: Through the use of action verbs, writers can paint vivid mental images in the minds of their readers. These verbs breathe life into descriptions, enabling readers to visualise the actions taking place. Instead of merely stating “He ran,” opting for “He sprinted” conjures a more vivid image of speed and intensity.
- Driving Engagement: In various forms of writing, such as marketing copy or storytelling, action verbs are instrumental in driving audience engagement. They compel readers to take action, whether it’s making a purchase, subscribing to a newsletter, or empathising with a character’s journey. Action verbs create a sense of urgency and involvement, fostering a deeper connection with the content.
- Amplifying Impact: When used strategically, action verbs can amplify the impact of a message. They imbue sentences with a sense of strength and conviction, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. Whether it’s rallying support for a cause or inspiring change, action verbs empower writers to convey their ideas with maximum impact.
Test Your Knowledge on Action Verbs
In the following sentences, fill in the blanks with the proper action verb. Select the verb from the provided list and use it in the appropriate tense.
(accompany, buy, sleep, drink, draft, win, cry, pass, ask, call)
- Why did you ________ her?
- The baby _________ because she is hungry
- My sister __________ me to school tomorrow.
- Every day, I _______ coconut water in the morning.
- My dad _________ me a new dress for my cousin’s wedding.
- My brother _________ by 10 p.m. daily.
- Can you _______ a letter to your team leader requesting a transfer?
- The teacher _______ the students to submit their homework before 8 in the morning.
- Jack ______ a gold medal at the Olympics in the school tournament.
- Can you please ______ the attendance sheet?
Let’s check if you got it right. Check your answers from here.
- Why did you call her?
- The baby is crying because she is hungry.
- My sister will accompany me to school tomorrow.
- Everyday, I drink coconut water in the morning.
- My dad bought me a new dress for my cousin’s wedding.
- My brother sleeps by 10 p.m. daily.
- Can you draft a letter to your team leader requesting a transfer?
- The teacher asked the students to submit their homework before 8 in the morning.
- Jack won a gold medal at the Olympics in the school tournament.
- Can you please pass the attendance sheet?
Action Verbs FAQs
What are action verbs?
Action verbs are words that describe actions. They tell us what the subject of a sentence is doing.
Why are action verbs important?
Action verbs make writing clearer and more engaging. They help readers understand what is happening in a sentence.
Can you provide examples of action verbs?
Sure! Examples of action verbs include run, eat, jump, write, and talk.
How do action verbs enhance readability?
Action verbs make sentences more concise and prevent them from becoming boring. They keep readers interested in the text.
How do action verbs engage readers?
Action verbs bring energy to sentences, making them more interesting to read. They draw readers into the story or message.
