Verbs of State and Action

Verbs in English can be classified as either state or action verbs.

Action verbs describe the things we do or things that happen.

State verbs refer to the way things 'are'.

Action verbs can be used in simple and continuous tenses.

For example: go.

Simple: I go. Continuous: I am going.

State verbs can only be used in simple tenses.

For example: like.

Simple: I like him. Continuous: I am liking him.

State Verbs can be divided into four main categories:

Verbs describing Mental Processes and Opinions	know believe understand recognize
Verbs Describing Possession	have own belong possess
Verbs Describing Senses	hear smell see feel
Verbs Showing Emotion	love hate want need

Verbs used in the Simple and the Continuous

Some verbs can be used in the simple and the continuous.

I think that stealing is wrong.
Think = believe

I am thinking about finding another job.
Think = mental process

I have two cars.
Have = possess, own

I am having my lunch now.
Have = eat

I am seeing my friend tomorrow evening.
See = meeting with

I see what you mean.
See = understand

Verbs that can be a State Verb or an Action Verb

Sense verbs can be state verbs or action verbs.

I am smelling a flower. (Action)

The flower smells good. (State)

I am tasting the food to check the flavour. (Action)

The food tastes good. (State)

Click on the links below to learn more about the Present Tenses