English grammar: To be

What this grammar point covers

The verb 'to be' is one of the most important verbs in English. It is used to say who or what something is, to describe people and things, and to talk about age, feelings, and locations.

When to use it

Use 'to be' to introduce yourself or others, to describe things, to say where things are, and to talk about feelings or age.

Key forms

• I am
• You are
• He/She/It is
• We are
• They are

Examples

Tips

• Remember to use 'am' with 'I', 'is' with he/she/it, and 'are' with you/we/they.
• Don't forget the verb! In English, sentences need a verb, even if it is just 'to be'.
• In questions, 'to be' comes before the subject: 'Are you ready?'

Exceptions and edge cases

• In short answers, you can use only 'am', 'is', or 'are': 'Yes, I am.'
• The negative form uses 'not': 'I am not', 'He is not', 'They are not'.