0071594973.pdf

In the past tense, “was” and “were” represent the verb

forms of the linking verb “to be” used as a main verb.

In the first example, hungry describes the subject Jake. The
second example uses hungry again to describe the subject we.
Last night, a time indicator, refers to a past action as expressed
by the verbs was and were.

4.13 Non-Action Verb To Have as Main Verb

The helping verb to have can also act as a main verb. When
used alone, it names what the subject owns or holds.

In the present tense, “have” and “has” are

the main verb forms of “to have.”

Today: Present Tense Yesterday: Present Perfect

Yesterday: Past Tense

Iwas

very hungry

last night.

I‘ve

studied

hard.

We were very

hungry last night.

Main Verb to have

Ihave

youhave

hehas, she has, it has

wehave

youhave

theyhave

Main Verb to be

Iwas

youwere

hewas, she was, it was

wewere

youwere

theywere

Helping Verb to have

The verb form have

uses the common

contraction of ’ve.

studied

I’ve

you’ve

hehas, she has, it has

we’ve

you’ve

they’ve

Ihavea

brother.

Haveandhasare forms

of the main verb to have.

Contractions for haveas

a main verb are not usually

used in the present tense.

Have and hasare forms of the

helping verb to have, which is

combined with the main verb,

in this case, studied.