When learning the rules for English grammar tenses, many English learners start to panic when they hear, “Irregular verbs.” But there are certain factors about English irregular verbs that mean that we don’t have to panic. Thinking about the verb tables and repeating, “Buy, bought, bought” isn’t the best way to remember English irregular verbs, and this article will explain why.
Luckily for English learners, a lot of the irregular verbs are also some of the most common verbs. Let’s look at some examples using both the past simple tense and the present perfect simple:
- I went to the park yesterday.
- I have been to France two times.
- I said that she was there.
- I have said that she has been there.
- I sold my car last year.
- I have just sold my car.
These examples tell us that some of the most common verbs are irregular. This is good because the more common the verb, the more we use it. And the more we use it, the easier we remember.
A better way to practise English irregular verbs
Whenever you come across an irregular verb it is important to make a note of it. Depending on your learning style this could be to simple make a mental note or it could involve you writing it down and repeating it. Knowing your learning style is key here and if you need lots of repetition (you’re not alone), then this is what you should do. It’s always a good idea to verbally repeat the sentence that contains the irregular verb. After all, this is what English speakers do in everyday conversation.
Most students will have experience learning irregular verbs from lists. This helps as familiarity with these verbs will help the learning process. But putting the verb into context, realizing that if you study English then you will see these irregular verbs all the time, and not being overwhelmed with the verb table list will mean that you will soon remember, and more importantly, use English irregular verbs.
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