Sentence structure
A simple sentence = noun phrase + verb phrase
Different verbs fit different verb patterns.
Example 1: Take
Take fits the pattern SVTN. The noun is an object.
They are transitive verbs.
Passive is possible with transitive verbs:
The dog was kicked by the young girl.
Example 2: Die
Die fits the pattern SV. It is an intransitive verb. There is no object.
S
Their father
The bus
VI
died
has arrived.
Example 3: Be
Be fits the pattern SVLN. It is a linking verb. The noun is not an object.
There are other verb patterns like SVNN, SVN to-infinitive…, SVN bare infinitive…, SVN past participle…, SV that-clause, etc.
SVNN They gave me a dictionary.
SVN to-infinitive… I want you to tell me everything.
SVN bare infinitive… She lets the boys play football on the lawn.
SVN past participle… The boss wants these letters typed.
SV that-clause I admit (that) I’ve been foolish.
A verb may have more than one verb pattern.
Examples:
I enjoy watching good films.
I enjoy to watch good films. X
I like swimming.
I like to swim.
A good dictionary, like Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary, which shows you how to use a verb, is essential to learning English.