A helping verb is a verb that helps the main verb make its statement
Yes, that's correct! A helping verb, also known as an auxiliary verb, is a verb that precedes the main verb in a sentence and helps to form different tenses, moods, or voices. Helping verbs are used to create compound verb forms for aspects such as continuity, perfectiveness, and passivity, as well as to indicate modality. They provide additional meaning and context to the main verb, indicating when the action took place and how it relates to the speaker.
Some common helping verbs in English include "be," "have," "do," "will," "shall," "can," "could," "may," "might," "must," "ought to," "should," "would," "shall," and "will." These can be used in various combinations with the main verb to express a wide range of nuances.
For example:
- "I am running." (The helping verb "am" combines with the main verb "running" to form the present continuous tense.)
- "She has finished her work." (The helping verb "has" combines with the main verb "finished" to form the present perfect tense.)
- "They will be arriving soon." (The helping verbs "will be" combine with the main verb "arriving" to form the future continuous tense.)
- "You must go now." (The helping verb "must" indicates necessity or obligation, combined with the main verb "go.")
Each helping verb works with the main verb to clarify the action or state of being, and together they form a complete idea.