Join over 300+ learners
Join the community for free resources and other learning opportunities.
No spam — only valuable English learning content.
Introduction to Non-Action Verbs vs Action Verbs
English learners often master simple verbs like eat, run, or play quickly. But confusion begins when they encounter verbs such as know, like, or believe. Should you say I am knowing the answer? Or is it I know the answer?
This confusion happens because learners mix up action verbs (also known as dynamic verbs) and non-action verbs (stative verbs). Both are verbs, but they behave differently in grammar, especially with continuous tenses.
In this guide, we’ll compare non-action verbs vs action verbs, show you examples in sentences, highlight common mistakes, and give you practice activities. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use each type.
What Are Action Verbs?
Action verbs describe things we do. They can be physical or mental, but they always show something that can be seen, measured, or imagined as an activity.
Key Features of Action Verbs:
- They describe actions, processes, or events.
- They can be used in both simple and continuous tenses.
- They answer the question “What is happening?”.
Examples in Sentences:
- She runs every morning.
- He is writing a letter now.
- We think carefully before making decisions.
👉 Notice that action verbs work perfectly with continuous forms: She is running, He is writing, We are thinking.
What Are Non-Action Verbs?
Non-action verbs describe a state, condition, or feeling rather than an action. They are sometimes called stative verbs.
Key Features of Non-Action Verbs:
- They describe thoughts, emotions, senses, or possession.
- They are not usually used in continuous tenses.
- They answer the question “What state exists?”.
Examples in Sentences:
- I know the answer.
- She loves chocolate.
- They own a car.
👉 Using these verbs in the continuous form (I am knowing, She is loving) is unnatural in standard English.
Action and Non-Action Verb Examples
Action Verbs in Sentences
- She is cooking dinner now.
- They played football yesterday.
- He writes essays every week.
- We are travelling to London tomorrow.
Non-Action Verbs in Sentences
- I believe this story is true.
- She wants a new phone.
- They own a flat in the city.
- He knows the answer.
- We like this restaurant.
Verbs That Can Be Both (Action or Non-Action)
Some verbs can act as both action and non-action, depending on context.
👉 These verbs often cause mistakes. Learners must check whether the verb shows an activity or a state.
Common Mistakes
❌ I am knowing the answer.
✅ I know the answer.
❌ She is wanting a car.
✅ She wants a car.
❌ They are believing the teacher.
✅ They believe the teacher.
Tip for Learners: If the verb expresses a thought, feeling, or possession, avoid continuous tenses.
Teaching and Learning Tips
- Teachers: Use visual charts contrasting “doing” verbs (run, eat, write) with “state” verbs (know, like, own).
- Learners: Practise by writing 5 sentences in the continuous form, then check if they are natural. E.g., I am owning a bike ❌ → I own a bike ✅.
- Exam Prep (IELTS/ESL): Misusing non-action verbs is a common grammar error in writing and speaking tests. Correct usage improves accuracy scores.
Practice Section
A. Correct the Mistakes
- I am believing you.
- She is owning two cats.
- They are knowing the rules.
- I am liking pizza.
- He is seeming tired.
B. Choose the Correct Answer
- She ____ a car.
a) has
b) is having - I ____ about my holiday right now.
a) think
b) am thinking - We ____ this answer is correct.
a) believe
b) are believing
Answers
A: 1. I believe you. 2. She owns two cats. 3. They know the rules. 4. I like pizza. 5. He seems tired.
B: 1. a) has, 2. b) am thinking, 3. a) believe
Conclusion
The difference between non-action verbs and action verbs is essential for correct English grammar. Action verbs show activities, while non-action verbs describe states, thoughts, or feelings. Some verbs can function as both, depending on context.
By studying these categories, practising examples, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll sound more accurate and confident.
📌 Next step: Read our Non-Action Verbs List for 280 common examples, or test your knowledge with our Non-Action Verbs Quiz.
Glossary
- Verb (n.) — a word that describes an action or state.
- Action verb (n.) — a verb showing a physical or mental activity.
- Non-action verb (n.) — a verb showing a state, thought, or feeling.
- Continuous tense (n.) — verb form ending in -ing (e.g., I am running).
- Stative (adj.) — describing a state, not an action.