What is a linking verb?

A linking verb functions to connect the subject of a sentence with a subject complement, which can be a predicate noun or an adjective that describes or identifies the subject. For instance, in the sentence "She is a teacher," the verb "is" links the subject "She" to the subject complement "a teacher," thus providing more information about the subject.

Linking verbs often convey a state of being rather than an action, which differentiates them from action verbs. Common linking verbs include forms of "to be," such as "am," "is," "are," "was," and "were," as well as other verbs like "seem," "become," and "feel." Understanding linking verbs is essential for constructing grammatically correct sentences that convey clear meaning about the subject's identity or state.

The other options refer to different types of verbs or functions that do not align with the definition of linking verbs. For example, a verb expressing action focuses on what the subject does, whereas linking verbs emphasize the state or condition of the subject.