In English, the verb phrase in our sentences can communicate many different meanings. To help express all of these different meanings, we often add “auxiliary” or “helping” verbs to the main verb of our sentences.
Be, do, and have
We add the auxiliary verb “be” to main verbs to form continuous tenses.
- We’re showing the apartments by appointment only.
- Marie isn’t renting anymore. She bought a condo earlier this year.
- Were you cooking earlier? I smelled something delicious in the hallway.
We use the auxiliary verb “do” to form negatives and questions in the present and past simple tenses.
- The bedroom doesn’t have a closet.
- Did one of our layouts get your attention?
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