Theory
Most verbs express actions, and we can use them in ... tenses.
simple
Which of these verbs is NOT stative?
- need
- belong
- watch
watch
Which of these 2 sentences is right?
You don't like chocolate.
You are not liking chocolate.
You don't like chocolate.
My husband ______ (always/taste) the food while I'm cooking! It's very annoying.
is always tasting
Some verbs usually express states, such as thoughts, feelings, possession and things we experience. We most often use these verbs in ... tenses, even if we mean ‘just now’.
simple
Which of these verbs is BOTH stative and active?
- have
- believe
- prefer
have
Which of these 2 sentences is right?
Turn on the TV, she is not studying now.
She doesn't study anymore.
Both sentences are right
She _____ (have) a bath now.
is having
Note that we can sometimes use some state verbs, particularly verbs that express how we feel, in ... tenses when we want to emphasize that the feeling or attitude is temporary.
continuous
Which of these verbs is BOTH stative and active?
- seem
- think
- hear
think
Which of these 2 sentences is right?
We agree with your plan.
I am agreeing with the group decision.
We agree with your plan.
Luke _____ (see) his girlfriend tonight.
is seeing
Common state verbs include verbs for: how we 1)... , what we 2) ...feel, 3) what we ..., 4)what we ...
1) think 2) feel 3) possess 4) experience
Which one of these verbs is only stative?
- know
- have
- write
know
Which of these 2 sentences is right?
This book belongs to the teacher.
This book is belonging to the teacher.
This book belongs to the teacher.
What’s wrong with you? You are always smart, but today you (be) stupid.
are being
Some verbs are also used in the present simple and present continuous with different ...
meaning
Which of these verbs is only stative?
- think
- listen
- understand
understand
Which of these 2 sentences is right?
Do you enjoy spicy food?
Are you enjoying this meal together?
Both sentences are right
What _____ (you/think) about this car?
do you think