Auxiliary verbs

“Auxiliary” is an adjective meaning “helping” or “supporting”. So, an auxiliary verb is one that helps or supports other verbs. We use auxiliary verbs to help other verbs form the various tenses, moods, and voices. The main auxiliary verbs are, “to be” “to do”, and “to have”.

We use “to be” to form continuous tenses.

Examples:

• He is reading a book.
• They were walking to the shops.
• I will be travelling to France tomorrow.

We also use “to be” to form the passive voice.

Examples:

• She was told that she had won a prize.
• The music is enjoyed by everyone.

We use “to have” to make perfect tenses.

Examples:

• The doctor had advised her to lose weight.
• Soon, they will have finished building the new house.
• I have read that book.

We use “to do” for emphasis.

Examples:

• He did sound sincere.
• You do look ill.

We also use “to do” to form questions.

Examples:

• Do you want a coffee?
• Does he visit his grandmother?
• Did you see that film?

“To do” is also used to form negatives.

Examples:

• I don’t enjoy football.
• She doesn’t wear makeup. 
• Doesn’t he know how to dance?
• Don’t they know it’s late?

Posted by Graham