194 English Grammar Demystifi ed
Smothered verbs appear in many other ways. Hundreds of other expressions exist
that use do,reach,give, and many others. For example:
do an inspectionhold a meetingfurnish an explanationreach an agreementWritten Practice 9-4
Rewrite each of the following sentences by uncovering the smothered verbs. The
fi rst one is done for you.
- I will send an invitation to all your friends.
I will invite all your friends. - When you reach a decision, let me be the fi rst to know.
- Do I always have to give a justifi cation for my actions?
- A long time ago, I reached a conclusion that I can’t please everyone all the
time. - We can do an inspection of the house before we move in.
- We shouldn’t move on until we form a plan for the future.
- Don’t give an answer unless you are absolutely sure how you feel.
- I give an apology anytime I offend someone.