Learning English

How to use state verbs

In Activity 1, we heard three people describing life in London. The three people all used several state verbs.

We use state verbs when talking about attitudes, thoughts, senses, or belonging. Sometimes, state verbs can also be used to describe actions. Most state verbs are not used in the continuous (-ing) form. They are different to action verbs which describe things we do or things that happen.

Listen to the audio again and notice the verbs in bold.

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State Verbs

We heard the speakers use these state verbs

I love living in London.
Not: I am loving living in London.

I doubt there is a more exciting city to live and work in.
Not: I am doubting…

I quite like living here.
Not: I am quite liking living here.

I prefer life in the countryside.
Not: I am preferring life in the countryside

I think that’s where I really belong.
Not: I am thinking that’s where I am belonging.

I hate living here.
Not: I am hating living here.

I don’t understand why everyone thinks it is so great.
Not: I am not understanding why everyone is thinking it is so great.

Everything costs so much!
Not: Everything is costing so much.

Exception

Some state verbs can be used in the continuous form to talk about a temporary action or an action happening in the present. However, state verbs often change their meanings when they are used in the continuous form. Here are some examples:

I think it’s a great car. (It is my opinion)
I am thinking of buying a car. (I am in the process of considering it)

I hate scary movies. (It is my general opinion)
I am hating this movie. (less formal – I am sitting through it now)

To do

So do you think you know the difference between state verbs and action verbs? Do the quiz to find out!

Next

Learn more about state verbs in 6 Minute Grammar.