Stative Verbs
Stative verbs (also called state verbs) describe states, conditions, or situations that are relatively permanent or unchanging. Unlike action verbs, stative verbs are not usually used in continuous tenses.
Understanding stative verbs is essential for using continuous tenses correctly in English. These verbs describe things we cannot see happening - they describe states of being, not actions.
In this lesson, we'll explore what makes a verb stative, see examples from different categories, and learn about verbs that can be both stative and action verbs depending on their meaning.
What Are Stative Verbs?
Action Verbs vs. Stative Verbs
The main difference between action verbs and stative verbs is that action verbs describe things we do (activities we can see or observe), while stative verbs describe states or conditions that exist.
Action Verbs (Dynamic Verbs)
These describe activities and can be used in continuous tenses:
- I'm eating lunch. (action happening now)
- She's running in the park. (action in progress)
- They're studying English. (action taking place)
Stative Verbs (State Verbs)
These describe states and are not usually used in continuous tenses:
- I know the answer. (NOT: I'm knowing)
- She loves chocolate. (NOT: She's loving)
- They own a house. (NOT: They're owning)
📋 Complete List of Stative Verbs
Want to see all stative verbs in one place? Check out our comprehensive list with examples and translations.
View Complete ListWhy Can't We Use Stative Verbs in Continuous Tenses?
Continuous tenses show actions in progress - things that are actively happening. Stative verbs describe conditions or states that simply exist; they don't progress or happen. You can't watch someone 'knowing' something or see them 'believing' - these states just are.
❌ Incorrect
- I am knowing the answer.
- She is loving chocolate.
- They are understanding English.
✓ Correct
- I know the answer.
- She loves chocolate.
- They understand English.
Categories of Stative Verbs
Special Cases: Verbs That Can Be Both
Some verbs can be both stative and action verbs, depending on their meaning. When these verbs describe actions, they can be used in continuous tenses. When they describe states, they cannot.
Common Exceptions in Modern English
While stative verbs shouldn't be used in continuous tenses, you'll sometimes hear them used this way in informal speech, advertising, and modern usage. This is technically incorrect but increasingly common.
Examples:
- "I'm loving it!" (McDonald's slogan)
- "I'm loving this new shampoo."
- "I'm hating this weather."
These uses emphasise temporary enthusiasm or strong current feelings, but they should be avoided in formal writing and academic contexts.
Practice Exercises
Identify Stative Verbs
Identify which verbs are stative
Choose Correct Form
Select the correct verb form
Special Cases
Practice verbs with dual meanings
Mixed Practice
Test all your knowledge