Basic Verbs

18 phrases · English with romanization, English and audio

  1. To go

    Usage

    The key motion verb; combine it with a destination

    Grammar Note

    Infinitive is "to" + base form. Forms: go / goes / went / gone

  2. To come

    Usage

    Used when a person or a vehicle arrives

    Grammar Note

    Forms: come / came / come

  3. To eat

    Usage

    The basic verb for anything about meals

  4. To drink

    Usage

    For ordering or declining drinks

  5. To buy

    Usage

    Shopping verb; pair it with the item name

  6. To see

    Usage

    For sightseeing, and for asking to be shown an item

    Grammar Note

    "See" is perceiving; "look at" is directing your gaze; "watch" is viewing over time

  7. To wait

    Usage

    For queues and for explaining a meeting arrangement

  8. I want to go

    Usage

    The standard way to state a destination; add a place name

    Grammar Note

    Add a destination: "I want to go to the station"

  9. I want to eat

    Usage

    State what you feel like eating; add the dish name

  10. I want this

    Usage

    Point at an item and say you would like it

    Grammar Note

    Say it while pointing; "I'd like this" is the politer form

  11. I don't need it

    Usage

    Decline a bag, a receipt, or anything else you do not need

  12. I'm looking for it

    Usage

    Say what you are trying to find, place or object

    Grammar Note

    Add the object: "I'm looking for my hotel"

  13. I have it

    Usage

    States possession; used to confirm tickets or bookings

  14. I don't have it

    Usage

    States you do not have it, e.g. no cash on you

  15. I'd like to withdraw money

    Usage

    State your intent at an ATM or a bank

    Grammar Note

    The machine is a "cash machine" in the UK, an "ATM" in the US

  16. I'd like to make a reservation

    Usage

    For booking a table or a room

  17. Could you help me?

    Usage

    Ask for concrete help: carrying a bag, working a machine

    Grammar Note

    "Could you...?" is softer than "Can you...?" and better with strangers

  18. Could you tell me?

    Usage

    Prefaces a question when you want information

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