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What is a verb helper?

A verb helper, also known as an auxiliary verb, is a verb that comes before another verb in a sentence. It helps to form different tenses, moods, and voices.

Here's a breakdown of the types and uses of verb helpers:

Types of Verb Helpers:

* Be verbs: *am, is, are, was, were, been, being*

* Examples: *I am going to the store.* (present progressive) *She was sleeping.* (past progressive)

* Have verbs: *have, has, had*

* Examples: *We have finished our homework.* (present perfect) *They had left before I arrived.* (past perfect)

* Do verbs: *do, does, did*

* Examples: *I do like pizza.* (emphasis) *She does not like broccoli.* (negative)

* Modal verbs: *can, could, will, would, shall, should, may, might, must*

* Examples: *I can swim.* (ability) *You should study for the test.* (advice)

Uses of Verb Helpers:

* Forming tenses: They help to form various tenses, such as the present perfect, past perfect, future tense, and progressive tenses.

* Expressing mood: They can be used to express different moods, such as the indicative (statement), imperative (command), and subjunctive (hypothetical).

* Creating negative sentences: *Do* and *did* are used to form negative sentences.

* Asking questions: *Do*, *does*, and *did* are used to form questions.

* Adding emphasis: *Do* and *does* can be used to emphasize a verb.

* Forming passive voice: The verb *be* is often used in the passive voice.

Remember:

* Verb helpers always come before the main verb.

* A verb helper can be followed by a past participle or a present participle.

* Not all sentences have verb helpers.

Understanding verb helpers is crucial for constructing grammatically correct and complex sentences in English.

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