Delexical Verbs

To go for a walk is not used in the same way as to walk. English abounds in delexical verbs. In to take a photo, to have a bath, to do your homework, to give a shout, to make an impression etc., the actual verb is more or less meaningless, i.e., it is not lexical. Rather, the meaning is carried by the noun, while the phrase functions as verb, but not a normal transitive or intransitive verb. The delexical verb structure is its own Verb + Object kernel of an English clause.

These are not difficult to learn: the difficulty lies in knowing when to use to photograph and when to use to take a photo.

• give a smile

• give something a try

• give someone a rest/break

• have/take a bath/shower

• have preference for

• have a break/rest

• have a dream

• have a naughty

• make a guess

• make a start

• make a friend

• make a fuss

• make a decision

• take a bow

• take a breath

• take control