Linking Verbs

1️⃣ The Classic: "To Be"

The backbone of linking verbs, "to be" connects a subject to either a noun (identity) or an adjective (description).

 ✔ Jessica is a doctor. (identity)
✔ The weather was beautiful. (description)

2️⃣ Appear, Look, Prove, Seem – To "To Be" or Not to "To Be"?

These verbs can sometimes include "to be", but it's optional.

 ✔ The party looked (to be) amazing!
✔ She seemed (to be) unable to think.

Rule of Thumb:

• For short, common adjectives, drop "to be." (The task seemed easy.)
• For formal or longer descriptions, "to be" makes things smoother. (He appeared to be in charge of the project.)

3️⃣ "Become" = Transformations

When something changes, "become" and "get" both work—but "become" is more formal.

 ✔ She became recognized as a marketing expert. (more polished)
✔ She got recognized as a marketing expert. (more casual)

4️⃣ "Go" for Negative Change

Some changes in life are unfortunate, and that’s where "go" comes in.

 ✔ My son went crazy when he saw Santa Claus!
✔ Everything went wrong today.
✔ My phone went dead during the call.

We also use "go" for gradual physical changes:
✔ He went blind at 60.
✔ She went bald in her 30s.

🚨 Exceptions: Some states require "get" instead of "go." ✔ Get ill, get sick, get old, get tired (❌ NOT "go ill," "go tired")