The verb ‘To Be‘ is the most essential verb in English. We use it to talk about identity, age, origin, descriptions, and feelings. This section gives you a complete overview of its three forms: am, is, and are.
1. Section Goals
- Know the three forms of the verb ‘to be‘: am, is, are.
- Form simple affirmative (positive) sentences.
- Form simple negative sentences.
2. ➕ Affirmative (Positive) Form
This form is used to state facts, identity, or origin.
| Subject | Verb ‘To Be’ | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| I | am | I am happy. / I am a student. |
| You | are | You are from China. / You are smart. |
| He/She/It | is | He is 30. / It is a pen. |
| We | are | We are friends. / We are students. |
| They | are | They are teachers. / They are late. |
3. ➖ Negative Form
To make a sentence negative, simply add the word ‘not‘ after the correct form of the verb ‘to be’ (am, is, are).
Formula: Subject + Verb To Be + NOT + Complement
| Subject | Negative Form (Full) | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| I | am not | I am not tired. |
| You/We/They | are not / aren’t | You are not happy. |
| He/She/It | is not / isn’t | It is not red. |
4. Activity: Choose the Correct Form
Choose am, is, or are to complete the sentences:
- My name _______ David.
- They _______ not friends.
- I _______ 21 years old.
- She _______ from Italy.
- We _______ happy.