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This is “Correct Verbs”, section 1.7 (from appendix 1) from the book Writers' Handbook (v. 1.0). For details on it (including licensing), click here.








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21.7 Correct Verbs

People who are new to English often experience confusion about which verb forms can serve as the verb in a sentence. An English sentence must include at least one verb or verb phrase and a tense that relays the time during which the action is taking place. Verbals (such as gerunds and infinitives) should not be confused with verbs.
•A sentence with a gerund must also have another verb.


Example

Correct example: Roger enjoys driving the RV.

Incorrect example: Roger driving the RV.
•A sentence with an infinitive must have another verb.


Example

Correct example: Kyle decided to write a long message.

Incorrect example: Kyle to write a long message.
•Verbs must match the timing indicated by the other words in a sentence.


Example

Past tense correct example: Yesterday, I called you at 5:00 p.m.

Past tense incorrect example: Yesterday, I call you at 5:00 p.m.

Future tense correct example: The next time it rains, I will bring my umbrella.

Future tense incorrect example: The next time it rains, I bring my umbrella.

Present tense correct example: Come in and get warm.

Present tense incorrect example: Come in and got warm.

See Chapter 15 "Sentence Building", Section 15.2 "Choosing Appropriate Verb Tenses" for a more extensive overview of verb tenses.


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