Stative and Dynamic Verbs
Home ] Up ] The Functional Approach to Grammar ] A Preparation for Formal Grammar ] Different Functions of Communication ] Theme and Rheme ] Identifying Subjects and Objects ] The Operator ] Coordinators ] Linking and Binding ] [ Stative and Dynamic Verbs ] Modality ] Polarity ] Descriptors ] Clefting ] Speech Acts ] A Grammatically-focused Transfer Task ]

 

Table of contents

How to Find Information

Schedule

Members

Join

*Pasha is knowing how to call the elephant from the river!
*The elephant is having a feeling of calm when Pasha calls her. 
*Pasha is knowing how to call the elephant from the river!
*The elephant is having a feeling of calm when Pasha calls her. 

Stative and Dynamic Verbs 

In most contexts, verbs are dynamic. They relate to action or to temporary or changeable conditions.   

Some verbs which denote lack of motion can be still be dynamic.

My bike tire struck a  piece of glass.                          

I was quietly resting after a busy day.   

Verbs like BE, HAVE, and KNOW are stative, or undynamic.  Their meanings are unchangeable or permanent. 

The professor knew a great deal about economics.

                                                                                                                                                                                           *The professor  is knowing a great deal about economics.   

Some verbs may be used either statively or dynamically.

Some tigers are living in a zoo. 

Tigers live in jungles.