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Zoltán Király Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

Are linking verbs considered function or content words?

Hello, words that are normally not stressed are classified as function words. The auxiliary (helping) verbs are function words, but what about linking verbs? Are linking verbs normally stressed or not stressed (when we don't shift the stress for special meaning)? for example in the phrase:

You look great.

Is the linking verb "look" stressed?
I would be grateful for any suggestion. Thank you!
  

Top answer

Zoltán Király You look great. Is the linking verb "look" stressed? No, not in the unmarked case.

— CalifJim

  • Zoltán Király You look great.
  • Is the linking verb "look" stressed?
  • No, not in the unmarked case.
  • It should only be stressed for contrast.
  • — I feel terrible!
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1 Answers
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Zoltán KirályYou look great. Is the linking verb "look" stressed?
No, not in the unmarked case. It should only be stressed for contrast.

— I feel terrible!
— I would never have known. You LOOK great. (look contrasted with feel)

CJ
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