Verb tense — English definition
The form of a verb that shows when an action happens — past, present, or future.
Where it is taught
- Punctuation & Conventions — Language & Vocabulary, English 6, Grade 6
In use
One more convention keeps writing from feeling wobbly: consistent verb tense.
Punctuation & Conventions
Questions using verb tense
Problem 1
Rewrite this sentence so the verb tense stays consistent: 'The puppy chased its tail, then rolls over and barks for a treat.'
Answer and explanation
A strong answer puts all verbs in the same tense, for example (past): 'The puppy chased its tail, then rolled over and barked for a treat,' or (present): 'The puppy chases its tail, then rolls over and barks for a treat.'