Understanding the correct use of “is,” “are,” and “am” is essential for creating clear and grammatically correct sentences in English. These verbs are forms of the verb “to be,” which is used to show existence, identity, or a state of being.
1. Use of “Is“
**”Is”** is the third person singular it is the present form of the verb “to be.” It is used with singular nouns and pronouns.
– **Singular Subjects**: “is” is use with he, she, it, and singular.
Examples
– She **is** a doctor.
– The dog **is** barking in the street.
– It **is** a rainy day
Use of “is” in Question and Negative
– **Questions**: In questions, “is” comes before the subject.
– Example: **Is** he coming to the playground?
Negatives: To form a negative, add “not.”
– Example: She **is not** (isn’t) sad.
2. Use of “Are”
“Are” is the second person singular and plural, as well as the first and third person plural present form of “to be.” It is used with plural nouns and the pronoun “you.”
Plural Subjects: Are is used with they, we, and plural nouns.
Examples:
– They **are** class fellows.
– We **are** going to the market.
– The boys**are** playing.
“Are” in Questions and Negatives:
– **Questions**: In questions, “are” also comes before the subject.
– Example: **Are** you a jeweller?
– **Negatives**: To form a negative, add “not.”
– Example: They **are not** (aren’t) going to school.
3. Use of “Am”
**”Am”** is the first person singular present form of “to be.” It is used completely with the pronoun “I.”
–Examples:
– I **am** a student.
– I **am** feeling happy today.
**”Am” in Questions and Negatives**:
Questions: “Am” is placed before the subject in questions, but since “I” is always the subject, it follows a specific structure.
– Example: **Am** I late?
Negatives: To form a negative, add “not.”
– Example: I **am not** (I’m not) a doctor.
| Verb | Subject | Example sentences |
| Is | Singular third person | She is a teacher. |
| Are | Plural, Second person | You are a doctor |
| Plural | They are playing. | |
| Am | Singular first person | I am ill. |
Examples sentences:
| Verb | Example in simple sentence | Example in Negative sentence | Example in Question Sentences |
| Is | She is a Doctor. | She is not a doctor. | Is she a doctor? |
| Are | They are friends. | They are not friends. | Are they friends? |
| Am | I am a teacher. | I am not a teacher. | Am I a teacher? |