Is (like) a linking verb?
When used as a verb, "like" is an action verb.
He likes her.
She likes ice cream.
They like their new coach.
=)
Actually, when used as a verb, "like" can function both as an action verb and as a linking verb. Whether it is a linking verb or an action verb depends on how it is used in a sentence.
As an action verb, "like" expresses an action or an ongoing activity. In sentences like "He likes her," "She likes ice cream," and "They like their new coach," "like" is acting as an action verb because it shows the subject (he, she, they) performing the action of liking someone or something.
However, "like" can also function as a linking verb when it connects the subject of a sentence to a subject complement, which renames or describes the subject. For example:
- She is like a sister to me.
- This music is like therapy for me.
In these sentences, "like" links the subject (she, this music) to the subject complement (a sister to me, therapy for me). The subject and the subject complement together create a complete description of the subject.
To determine whether "like" is being used as a linking verb or as an action verb, you need to consider the context and the role it plays in the sentence.