Verbal periphrasis refers to the use of auxiliary verbs or verb phrases to express different aspects, moods, or tenses of a verb.
Here are some rules and uses of verbal periphrasis:
1. Progressive/Continuous Periphrasis:
The progressive periphrasis is used to express actions that are ongoing or in progress at a specific time. It is formed with the auxiliary verb "be" (in the appropriate tense) followed by the present participle (-ing form) of the main verb.
Examples:
| Time | Phrase | |
|---|---|---|
| 🔊 | Present Progressive: | I am studying for my exam. |
| 🔊 | Past Progressive: | She was reading a book yesterday. |
| 🔊 | Future Progressive: | They will be playing soccer tomorrow. |
2. Perfect Periphrasis:
The perfect periphrasis is used to express actions that are completed or have a connection to the present. It is formed with the appropriate form of the auxiliary verb "have" followed by the past participle of the main verb.
Examples:
| Time | Phrase | |
|---|---|---|
| 🔊 | Present Perfect: | He has finished his homework. |
| 🔊 | Past Perfect: | We had already eaten when she arrived. |
| 🔊 | Future Perfect: | By tomorrow, they will have completed the project. |
3. Modal Periphrasis:
Modal periphrasis involves using modal verbs with the base form of the main verb to express different moods or attitudes.
Examples:
| Type | Phrase | |
|---|---|---|
| 🔊 | Ability: | She can swim. |
| 🔊 | Possibility: | It may rain later. |
| 🔊 | Obligation: | You should finish your homework. |
| 🔊 | Permission: | He could go to the party if he wants. |
4. Passive Periphrasis:
The passive periphrasis is used to emphasize the action or to shift the focus from the doer of the action to the receiver. It is formed with the appropriate form of the auxiliary verb "be" followed by the past participle of the main verb.
Examples:
| Time | Phrase | |
|---|---|---|
| 🔊 | Present Passive: | The report is being reviewed by the manager. |
| 🔊 | Past Passive: | The book was written by a famous author. |
| 🔊 | Future Passive: | The project will be completed by the end of the week. |
It's important to note that verbal periphrasis can vary depending on the tense, aspect, mood, and voice being expressed. The choice of the auxiliary verb and the form of the main verb depend on the specific meaning and context. By understanding and practicing these structures, you can enhance your ability to express different nuances in English.
Vocabulary:
| Word | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| 🔊 | Verbal periphrasis | Perífrasis verbal |
| 🔊 | Infinitive | Infinitivo |
| 🔊 | Gerund | Gerundio |
| 🔊 | Auxiliary verb | Verbo auxiliar |
| 🔊 | Main verb | Verbo principal |
| 🔊 | Present participle | Participio presente |
| 🔊 | Past participle | Participio pasado |
| 🔊 | Future tense | Tiempo futuro |
| 🔊 | Present continuous | Presente continuo |
| 🔊 | Past perfect | Pasado perfecto |
Activity.
1. Order the phrases:
2. Complete the sentences with the correct form of verbal periphrasis:
