State verbs vs active verbs State verbs cannot

State verbs vs active verbs State verbs: cannot be used in the present continuous ÞThey express a state or condition, i. e. a fact rather than an activity. Þ We have to use the present simple with these state verbs.

Verbs that express “possession” e. g. possess – belong to – own – have – contain -This bicycle belongs to me. -They own three houses. -I have two children.

Verbs that express a way of “being” e. g. be – seem – appear – come from – resemble - cost – weigh -My neighbours are / come from Australia. -Jim resembles his sister Anna. -That car costs too much for me.

Verbs that express some kind of “knowledge” e. g. know – believe – think – understand – agree – doubt – remember – forget – mean – imagine – realize – prefer – -Do you believe in God? -I know him very well. -He doesn’t understand this grammatical rule.

Verbs that express “emotion” e. g. like – love – hate – care – hope – wish – want – -I love languages but I hate mathematics. -I like Susan very much. -Do you also want to travel around the world?

Verbs that express “sensation” (> the senses) e. g. look – hear – taste – smell – feel – -This perfume smells good. -You look so young with that green dress! -My mother’s soup tastes delicious.

Verbs used as state verbs AND as active verbs, depending on their meaning. A few examples: HAVE The Smiths have a beautiful house. (possession) I can’t call you now. We’re having a test. (right now) THINK What do you think of his new haircut? (opinion) I’m thinking of my son in Norway. (at the moment) SEE I’m seeing the dentist at 6 p. m. (arrangement) I see what you mean. (understanding)

And now… Exercises ! -SB p. 17 (discussing grammar) -WB p. 15 ex. 7 (Present Simple or Continuous? )