presentation noun or verb

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of presentation in English

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presentation noun ( EVENT )

• talk She will give a talk on keeping kids safe on the internet.
• lecture The lecture is entitled "War and the Modern American Presidency".
• presentation We were given a presentation of progress made to date.
• speech You might have to make a speech when you accept the award.
• address He took the oath of office then delivered his inaugural address.
• oration It was to become one of the most famous orations in American history.
• The presentation was a collaborative effort by all the children in the class .
• The charity invited the press to a presentation of its plans for the future .
• The magazine asked its readers to send in their comments about the new style of presentation.
• Jenny's retiring and I think there's going to be a small presentation this afternoon .
• Graduates must be in full academic dress at the presentation of certificates .
• call for papers
• deliver a speech
• maiden speech
• public speaking
• talk at someone

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

presentation noun ( APPEARANCE )

• adverse conditions
• good/bad karma idiom
• have it in you idiom
• unaffiliated
• undercurrent

presentation | American Dictionary

Presentation | business english, examples of presentation, collocations with presentation, presentation.

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Translations of presentation

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How To Use “Presentation” In A Sentence: Usage and Examples

Looking at using presentation in a sentence, there are a few key elements to consider. In this article, we will explore the proper way to incorporate presentation into your writing and how it can enhance the overall impact of your sentences.

Definition Of Presentation

In its simplest form, a presentation refers to the act of presenting or showcasing something to an audience. It involves conveying information, ideas, or arguments through various mediums such as spoken words, visual aids, or multimedia elements. Presentations are commonly utilized in educational, business, and professional settings to inform, persuade, or entertain.

Historical Evolution

The concept of presentations has a rich historical evolution that can be traced back to ancient times. In ancient Greece, for example, the art of rhetoric played a significant role in public speaking and persuasion. Philosophers like Aristotle emphasized the importance of effective communication and the use of persuasive techniques to engage an audience.

Throughout history, the development of technology and communication tools has greatly influenced the way presentations are delivered. From the advent of printing presses to the emergence of digital media, the evolution of presentation techniques has been shaped by advancements in technology.

Different Meanings In Different Contexts

While the core definition of presentation remains consistent across various contexts, the specific meanings and purposes can vary depending on the field or situation in which it is used. Let’s explore a few examples:

• Academic Context: In an academic setting, a presentation often refers to a formal talk given by students or scholars to share research findings, present a thesis, or deliver a lecture. It serves as a platform for knowledge dissemination and academic discussion.
• Business Context: In the business world, presentations are commonly used to pitch ideas, showcase products or services, or deliver reports to clients, colleagues, or stakeholders. Effective business presentations can help drive sales, secure investments, or communicate important updates within an organization.
• Artistic Context: In the realm of art and entertainment, presentations can take the form of performances, exhibitions, or shows. Artists, musicians, and performers often use presentations to express their creativity, entertain audiences, and convey a specific message or emotion.

These examples highlight the versatility of presentations and how their purpose and format can adapt to the specific needs of different fields and industries.

How To Properly Use Presentation In A Sentence

When it comes to using the word “presentation” in a sentence, it is important to follow the grammatical rules that govern its usage. By understanding these rules, you can effectively incorporate this versatile word into your writing. Additionally, it is worth noting that “presentation” can serve as different parts of speech, such as a noun or a verb, depending on the context.

Grammatical Rules For Using “Presentation”

1. As a noun:

• “Presentation” functions as a noun when referring to the act of presenting something or the manner in which something is presented.
• For example: “Her presentation on climate change was informative and engaging.”
• Here, “presentation” is used as a noun to describe the act of presenting information about climate change.

2. As a verb:

• “Presentation” can also be used as a verb, primarily in technical or formal contexts.
• For example: “He will present his findings at the conference tomorrow.”
• In this sentence, “present” is the verb form of “presentation,” indicating the action of delivering or showcasing something.

Exploring The Different Parts Of Speech

In addition to its primary usage as a noun or a verb, “presentation” can also function as other parts of speech depending on its role within a sentence.

1. As an adjective:

• In certain cases, “presentation” can be used as an adjective to describe something that is related to or characteristic of a presentation.
• For example: “The presentation skills workshop offered valuable tips for delivering effective speeches.”
• Here, “presentation” modifies the noun “skills” to specify that the workshop focuses on skills related to delivering presentations.

2. As an adverb:

• While less common, “presentation” can occasionally function as an adverb to describe the manner in which something is presented or performed.
• For example: “She sang the song presentation beautifully.”
• In this sentence, “presentation” modifies the verb “sang” to indicate how the song was performed.

By recognizing the various parts of speech that “presentation” can assume, you can employ this word with precision and clarity in your writing. Whether you are discussing the act of presenting information or describing something related to a presentation, understanding the grammatical rules surrounding “presentation” is essential for effective communication.

Examples Of Using Presentation In A Sentence

When it comes to showcasing the versatility of the word “presentation,” a mix of simple and complex sentences can effectively demonstrate its various applications. By exploring different contexts and nuances, we can gain a deeper understanding of this multifaceted term.

• In a business meeting, the sales manager delivered an impressive presentation that captivated the entire audience.
• Her artistic presentation of the landscape captured the essence of nature’s beauty, leaving spectators in awe.
• The professor’s presentation on quantum physics was so intricate that only a few students could grasp its complexities.
• During the conference, the speaker used visual aids to enhance the clarity of his presentation, making it easier for the attendees to follow along.
• The chef’s presentation of the gourmet dish was a feast for the eyes, with each element meticulously arranged on the plate.

These diverse examples illustrate how “presentation” can be applied in different scenarios. Whether it’s a professional setting, an artistic endeavor, an educational lecture, or even a culinary experience, the word “presentation” takes on unique meanings and nuances.

Edge Cases Or Things To Consider

When it comes to using presentation in a sentence, there are certain edge cases and considerations that one should keep in mind. By understanding these nuances, you can ensure that your message is effectively conveyed and that you avoid common mistakes that people often make in this realm.

Common Mistakes People Make When Using Presentation

While using presentation in a sentence may seem straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that individuals tend to make. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can avoid them and elevate the impact of your communication.

1. Overusing jargon: One of the most prevalent mistakes is overusing technical jargon or industry-specific terms. While it may seem impressive to showcase your knowledge, it can alienate your audience if they are not familiar with the terminology. Instead, strive for clarity by using language that is accessible to a broader audience.

2. Lack of structure: Another mistake is presenting information without a clear structure or flow. This can lead to confusion and make it difficult for your audience to follow along. To overcome this, consider organizing your presentation into logical sections or using visual aids such as bullet points or slides to guide your audience through the information.

3. Reading directly from slides: Reading word-for-word from your slides is a common error that can hinder engagement and diminish the impact of your presentation. Instead, use your slides as visual aids to support your spoken words and expand upon the key points. This will help maintain the audience’s attention and create a more dynamic and engaging experience.

4. Ignoring the audience: Failing to consider the needs and preferences of your audience is another mistake that can undermine the effectiveness of your presentation. Take the time to research and understand your audience’s background, interests, and expectations. Tailor your content and delivery style accordingly to ensure maximum engagement and relevance.

Cultural Or Regional Differences

It is crucial to be mindful of cultural or regional differences when using presentation in a sentence, especially in a globalized world where communication spans borders and cultures. These differences can significantly impact how your message is received and understood by your audience.

1. Language nuances: Different cultures may have varying interpretations of certain words or phrases. A word that seems innocuous in one culture could carry a completely different meaning or connotation in another. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of potential language barriers and adapt your language accordingly to ensure clarity and avoid any unintended misunderstandings.

2. Gestures and body language: Non-verbal communication, including gestures and body language, can vary greatly across cultures. What may be considered a positive gesture in one culture may be offensive or inappropriate in another. It is essential to research and familiarize yourself with the cultural norms of your audience to ensure that your non-verbal cues align with their expectations and do not inadvertently cause confusion or offense.

3. Visual aesthetics: Cultural preferences for visual aesthetics, such as color symbolism or graphic design styles, can also differ significantly. For example, certain colors may have positive connotations in one culture but negative associations in another. Paying attention to these nuances and adapting your visual elements accordingly can enhance the overall impact and effectiveness of your presentation.

In conclusion, understanding the common mistakes people make when using presentation and being mindful of cultural or regional differences can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively. By avoiding these pitfalls and considering the unique needs of your audience, you can ensure that your message resonates and leaves a lasting impression.

Synonyms Or Alternates To Use

When it comes to expressing ideas or conveying information, using a variety of words can enhance the effectiveness of your communication. In this section, we will explore four synonyms or alternate words that can be used interchangeably with “presentation.” Each of these words carries a slightly different nuance or usage, making them valuable additions to your vocabulary.

1. Demonstration

A demonstration refers to the act of showing or proving something through practical examples or visual aids. Unlike a presentation, which often involves a broader scope of information, a demonstration tends to focus on specific aspects or features. It emphasizes the hands-on aspect of showcasing a product, process, or concept. For instance, a software developer might give a demonstration of a new application’s functionalities to potential users.

2. Exhibition

An exhibition typically involves displaying or presenting objects, artworks, or ideas in a curated manner. While a presentation can be more abstract or verbal, an exhibition is often visual and immersive. It allows individuals to explore and engage with the displayed items, creating a multisensory experience. Museums, galleries, and trade shows frequently organize exhibitions to showcase their collections or promote specific themes. Unlike a presentation, an exhibition often invites active participation and encourages visitors to draw their own conclusions.

A lecture is an educational or informative talk given by an expert in a particular field. While a presentation can be interactive and involve audience engagement, a lecture is typically more one-sided, with the speaker imparting knowledge or insights. Lectures are commonly delivered in academic settings, conferences, or professional seminars. Unlike a presentation, which may incorporate multimedia elements, a lecture often relies on verbal communication and relies heavily on the speaker’s expertise.

A pitch refers to a persuasive presentation aimed at convincing others to support an idea, product, or project. Unlike a conventional presentation, which can be informative or instructional, a pitch is specifically designed to elicit a desired response, such as investment, partnership, or approval. Pitches are commonly used in business settings, startup environments, or sales scenarios. They often involve highlighting the unique selling points, benefits, and potential outcomes of the idea or product being pitched.

While these synonyms can be used interchangeably with “presentation” in many contexts, each word carries its own subtle differences in meaning and usage. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the most appropriate term based on the specific context and desired impact.

Related Phrases Or Idioms

When it comes to incorporating the concept of presentation into everyday language, there are several related phrases and idioms that can be used to convey different meanings or situations. These expressions, often rooted in cultural or historical contexts, provide a unique way to communicate ideas and experiences. Let’s explore a few of them:

1. “Put On A Show”

This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who is intentionally creating a spectacle or performance for others to enjoy or be entertained by. It implies the act of presenting oneself or a specific talent or skill in a dramatic or theatrical manner.

Example sentence: “During the talent show, Sarah put on a show with her amazing singing and dancing abilities.”

2. “Dress To Impress”

This idiom emphasizes the importance of dressing in a way that leaves a lasting positive impression on others, particularly in professional or formal settings. It signifies the act of presenting oneself in a visually appealing and confident manner.

Example sentence: “John always dresses to impress when attending job interviews, as he believes that a polished appearance enhances his presentation skills.”

3. “Smooth Talker”

This phrase refers to someone who possesses the ability to speak eloquently and persuasively, often with the intention of charming or convincing others. It suggests a skillful and polished presentation of one’s ideas or arguments.

Example sentence: “The salesman was a smooth talker who effortlessly convinced customers to buy his products through his captivating presentation.”

4. “Give Someone The Floor”

When someone is given the floor, it means they are granted the opportunity to speak or present their ideas or opinions to a group or audience. This expression is commonly used in formal or organized settings, such as meetings or debates.

Example sentence: “The CEO gave the marketing team the floor to present their new campaign strategy during the company-wide meeting.”

5. “Actions Speak Louder Than Words”

This idiom emphasizes the significance of actions over mere verbal communication. It suggests that the way one presents themselves through their actions and behavior carries more weight and impact than mere words.

Example sentence: “Instead of promising to help, Sarah volunteered at the local food bank, showing that her actions spoke louder than words in supporting the community.”

6. “Make A Grand Entrance”

When someone makes a grand entrance, it means they enter a room, event, or situation in a highly noticeable and impressive manner, often attracting attention and creating a memorable first impression.

Example sentence: “The bride made a grand entrance at her wedding, walking down the aisle in a stunning gown, captivating everyone with her presentation.”

7. “Get Your Act Together”

This phrase is used to encourage someone to organize, prepare, or improve their overall performance or presentation. It implies the need to gather oneself and present a more focused and polished version of oneself.

Example sentence: “After receiving constructive feedback, the actor knew it was time to get his act together and deliver a flawless presentation on opening night.”

These phrases and idioms not only add color and richness to our language but also highlight the importance of effective presentation skills in various aspects of life. Incorporating them into our conversations can help us express ourselves more vividly and convey nuanced meanings related to presentation.

In conclusion, the correct usage of presentation holds significant importance in effective communication. By employing presentation techniques appropriately, individuals can enhance the clarity and impact of their message, ensuring it resonates with the intended audience. Whether it is in a professional setting, academic environment, or personal interactions, mastering the art of presentation is a valuable skill that can yield numerous benefits.

As we have explored throughout this article, presentation involves not only the delivery of information but also the strategic arrangement and organization of ideas. It encompasses various elements such as body language, vocal tone, visual aids, and storytelling. By paying attention to these aspects, individuals can captivate their listeners, convey their message convincingly, and leave a lasting impression.

While understanding the theory behind effective presentation is essential, it is equally crucial to put it into practice. To truly harness the power of presentation, readers are encouraged to actively incorporate it into their own sentences, conversations, and presentations. By doing so, they can refine their communication skills and master the art of delivering impactful messages.

Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.

Daily Writing Tips

The changing faces of “present” and “presentation”.

Present belongs to a group of English words that, with a shift in pronunciation, may be either noun or verb. present [prĕz’ənt] n. (accent on the first syllable) – a gift present [prĭ-zĕnt’] v. (accent on the second syllable) – to introduce, to give an award

In an article about the 2009 Academy Awards, I noticed a third use of present that may be in the process of entering the language:

Best Present : Copresenters Steve Martin and Tina Fey, who’ve been funny together on TV and film, delivered a hilarious tribute to writers that made us want to see them make another movie together. —Erik Pedersen, E! Online

Here Pedersen is using present as a shortened form of presentation . In the way of the web, Pedersen’s words have been copied by numerous bloggers and it may only be a matter of time before we hear present [prē’zĕnt] for presentation the way we hear invite [ĭn’-vīt] in place of invitation .

presentation [prĕz’ən-tā’shən] n. – the act of presenting

A presentation can be a gift, or it can be something like a lecture or a slide presentation.

Evidence that the cropped form present for presentation may have already caught on with some users appears in these headlines used to introduce slide shows on the web:

OM slide Present SHN Membership Slide Present 2006

In looking for examples of this new, unlovely use of present , I came across a (to me) new use of presentation . When used on a wedding invitation, the expression “presentation preferred,” means “forget the gifts, we want cash.”

This comment from a wedding forum shows that not eveyone is comfortable with this use of presentation :

My soon-to-be mother in-law is really against “presentation”, but it’s our wedding, not hers ! I guess when we showed her the sample of the invite, she didn’t notice the “presentation” on it.

Ah, the accelerate of linguistic change!

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8 thoughts on “The Changing Faces of “Present” and “Presentation””

The use of ‘Best Present’ may also be a pun. Could Fey and Martin’s tribute be considered a gift to the writers?

No, no! Please don’t condone it! It’s sloppy and it’s wrong. Oh how I wish there was way to stop these horrible aberrations. Meet (meeting), invite (invitation) – and now present (presentation). Oh dear, just ghastly.

An awful lot of changes are coming from the business and IT worlds. Three Letter Acronyms (or TLA as we like to say) abound. IN Microsoft we use TeleCon as in Dear Sir, Thank you for your Telecon of the 15th. Can mean Telephone Call or Tele Conference.

Arrange any 3 letters in any order and someone will make up a technology to go with it.

BTW – How many TLAs can you make out of the 26 letter alphabet???

Seems that the abbreviation madness that is standard in instant messaging is seeping into standard language. Seems along the lines of dropping words like ‘the’, ‘an’, and so on. Read about that somewhere and it made my eyes spin! How sad. (The abbreviating, not my eyes spinning.)

Charlie (#3), I found it interesting that in speaking about dropping words, you dropped the subject from each of your sentences. I had a supervising teacher (in my student teaching days long ago) who occasionally made a point about this NOT being acceptable in writing (even personal letters, which we still wrote and sent via snail mail in those days), even though he’d allow it in conversation. He NEVER wrote, “Hope you’re doing well.” Of course, he had lovely penmanship, and the letter “I” was never a problem for him.

There are times when, for clarity, even small words should not be dropped, especially from written communication when the reader does not have the added clues of pronunciation and inflection to discern meaning. In today’s post above, I was not sure (because I hadn’t heard PRESENT used to mean presentation) how to pronounce it until Maeve wrote out the pronunciation in context.

Also, I wonder what Miss Manners would have to say about “Presentation Preferred” on wedding invitations! The concept sounds a bit unmannerly to me, as though the “invite” is being sent only so the “invitee” will bring a gift! I suppose I’m in a class with the mother-in-law mentioned above.

Grace S. Oh my goodness (she types as her face turns red). I just re-read what I had posted and you are right! I was unaware of doing that. I am on-line every day, and do a lot of e-mail. It looks like I am morphing into what I was talking about. Oops!

Thank you for pointing that out.

Of course there is a further context in which “present” is used as a noun (now) or adjective, (happening or existing now) and which is frequently used interchangeably with the noun (current) and adjective (currently).

First time on this site, really necessary! I would like to propose another topic (or at least could someone please redirect my inquiry?): when did ‘better’ become a verb? As in “I would like to better myself” or “He is bettering himself by going back to school”. Thank you very much.

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Look up a word, learn it forever.

Presentation, /prɛzənˈteɪʃɪn/, /prezənˈteɪʃən/.

Other forms: presentations

The noun presentation means the official giving, or presenting, of something. The presentation of diplomas at a graduation ceremony is the part that makes many of the parents in the audience cry.

A presentation can be a ceremony of giving some gift or award, and it can also be a demonstration or show — like a dog training presentation at your local pet store. Another meaning of presentation is a style of displaying something — like the presentation of plants and flowers in the florist's window or the presentation of food on a buffet table. In the 1600s, presentation was commonly used to mean "show or play," as in "a theatrical presentation ."

• noun the activity of formally presenting something (as a prize or reward) “she gave the trophy but he made the presentation ” see more see less type of: ceremony the proper or conventional behavior on some solemn occasion
• noun the act of presenting a proposal see more see less types: first reading the first presentation of a bill in a legislature second reading the second presentation of a bill in a legislature; to approve its general principles (Britain) or to discuss a committee's report and take a vote (US) type of: proposal , proposition the act of making a proposal
• noun the act of making something publicly available; presenting news or other information by broadcasting or printing it “he prepared his presentation carefully in advance” see more see less types: unveiling putting on display for the first time production a presentation for the stage or screen or radio or television staging , theatrical production the production of a drama on the stage type of: display exhibiting openly in public view
• noun formally making a person known to another or to the public synonyms: intro , introduction see more see less types: debut the presentation of a debutante in society reintroduction an act of renewed introduction type of: informing , making known a speech act that conveys information
• noun a show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view “the presentation of new data” synonyms: demonstration , presentment see more see less types: show 19 types... hide 19 types... exhibition the act of exhibiting exposure presentation to view in an open or public manner performance the act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment lecture demonstration presentation of an example of what the lecturer is discoursing about counterdemonstration a demonstration held in opposition to another demonstration dramatic performance , dramatic production the act of performing a drama encore an extra or repeated performance; usually given in response to audience demand extemporisation , extemporization , improvisation a performance given extempore without planning or preparation juggle , juggling throwing and catching several objects simultaneously conjuration , conjuring trick , deception , illusion , legerdemain , magic , magic trick , thaumaturgy , trick an illusory feat; considered magical by naive observers musical performance the act of performing music one-night stand a performance in one place on one night only interpretation , rendering , rendition the act of interpreting something as expressed in an artistic performance last hurrah , swan song a final performance or effort (especially before retirement) debunking , repudiation the exposure of falseness or pretensions production (law) the act of exhibiting in a court of law rodeo an exhibition of cowboy skills program , programme a performance (or series of performances) at a public presentation reprise the act of performing a role again type of: show the act of publicly exhibiting or entertaining
• noun a visual representation of something synonyms: display see more see less types: show 5 types... hide 5 types... float an elaborate display mounted on a platform carried by a truck (or pulled by a truck) in a procession or parade Snellen chart display consisting of a printed card with letters and numbers in lines of decreasing size; used to test visual acuity spectacle an elaborate and remarkable display on a lavish scale bullfight , corrida a Spanish or Portuguese or Latin American spectacle; a matador baits and (usually) kills a bull in an arena before many spectators naumachia , naumachy a naval spectacle; a mock sea battle put on by the ancient Romans type of: representation a creation that is a visual or tangible rendering of someone or something
• noun (obstetrics) position of the fetus in the uterus relative to the birth canal “Cesarean sections are sometimes the result of abnormal presentations ” see more see less type of: attitude , position , posture the arrangement of the body and its limbs

Vocabulary lists containing presentation

To improve your fluency in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), learn this academic vocabulary list that includes words selected from the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) state standards.

Vocabulary is key to performing well on Common Core-aligned tests for English Language Arts as well as for building literacy in social studies, science, and technical subjects. This collection features common tier-2 words that are taught and tested in Grades 9 and 10. These words are used in a variety of contexts, exhibit different shades of meaning based on those contexts, and appear commonly in classroom instruction and on standardized assessments. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1 , List 2 , List 3 , List 4 , List 5 , List 6 , List 7 , List 8

Vocabulary is key to performing well on Common Core-aligned tests for English Language Arts as well as for building literacy in social studies, science, and technical subjects. This collection features common tier-2 words that are taught and tested in Grade 6. These words are used in a variety of contexts, exhibit different shades of meaning based on those contexts, and appear commonly in classroom instruction and on standardized assessments. Here are links to our lists for the collection: List 1 , List 2 , List 3 , List 4 , List 5 , List 6 , List 7 , List 8

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Is Your Presentation a Noun or a Verb?

Many of us squander the most valuable real estate on our slides: the slide title. Audience members read slide titles expecting to get the storyline, but often all they get is a string of nouns that sounds like a file folder label. One of the most welcome upgrades in contemporary business presentations is turning that slide title into a message on every slide.

Need an example? Here are four typical slide titles:

1. Overview of sales goals 2. Targets by region 3. Performance against target last year 4. Incentives for meeting/surpassing your goal

Are you out of your chair with excitement yet? Neither am I.

Now imagine the same presentation with these upgraded slide titles:

1. Your sales goal this year is attainable 2. Your region decided to reach higher, and headquarters will support you 3. Last year’s achievements prove you can do this! 4. Terrific incentives await you when you achieve your target

Which presentation would you rather attend?

For all of human history, we have made sense of the world and shared what we know by telling stories. You can buck that trend if you wish, but we do this for a reason— stories are memorable and evocative. If a little voice in your head is saying that you prefer the first set of slide titles because they’re shorter, please question that little voice’s reasoning. Is the goal of your presentation to finish quickly or to drive action? What outcome do you want? If you want excited salespeople who will reach this year’s targets, you’ll benefit from slide titles more like the second set. Length is much less important than impact.

What happens if you choose verbs over nouns?

If every slide has a noun phrase at the top, content shows up in neat categories. You look organized. All the content is sitting still, going nowhere, but it’s in the right place. Your boss could entrust you with organizing her sock drawer.

If, by contrast, every slide has a verb phrase at the top, you can unfold the storyline as you advance your slides. You look outcome driven. All the content supports a story the audience is more likely to care about, and your boss can stop thinking about her sock drawer.

Noun phrases are polite. Neat. Still. Forgettable.

Verb phrases are dynamic. Energized. Memorable.

Is your entire presentation a noun or a verb? Your slide titles will decide the question.

How can you tell?

Open one of your slide decks. In PowerPoint, at the heading for the left column, you can switch from “slides” view to “outline” view. Read the bold text in outline view, top to bottom, and see whether you pick up an unbroken storyline. (Hint: “Next steps” is not part of a storyline. It’s a file folder label. “Next we’ll choose the vendor and start the training” is part of a storyline.)

And there’s a bonus!

Audience members often complain that there’s too much text on slides. Using verb phrases helps you avoid that trap. With your key message for the slide up in the title, you can reduce text in the body of the slide.

With your verb phrases in place, you’ll be ready to keep your audience members’ attention all the way through your story, and they’ll be more likely to remember it. That’s a winning outcome!

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Definition of present verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

something to be considered

• present something Are you presenting a paper at the conference?
• She presented some data on the 2016 presidential election.
• The paper presents no evidence of a link.
• The results presented here confirm our prediction.
• Findings are presented in Table 9.
• He presents a convincing case .
• present something to somebody The committee will present its final report to Parliament in June.
• present something for something Eight options were presented for consideration.
• The banks will begin to present their arguments today.
• The opinions presented here are the author's.
• He presented the information to his colleagues.
• The arguments were well researched and clearly presented.
• The papers are only briefly presented here.
• We have tried to present both sides of the debate.
• These two techniques are presented for illustration only.
• She was presented with a choice of three dates.
• attractively

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Types of verbs

We are going to explore 11 different types of verbs. Because every type deserves some attention, we won’t be going into too much detail on each type. If you want to learn more than what is covered here, you’re in luck. Listed below are each of the 11 types of verbs we are going to look at and a link to an article entirely focused on that specific type of verb.

• Action verbs
• Stative verbs
• Transitive verbs
• Intransitive verbs
• Linking verbs
• Helping verbs (also called auxiliary verbs)
• Modal verbs
• Regular verbs
• Irregular verbs
• Phrasal verbs
• Infinitives

1. Action verbs

Action verbs, as their name says, are used to refer to actions. These can refer to physical actions that are performed with bodies or objects, such as jump , hit , or sing , or mental actions that we use our brains to perform, such as think , consider , or memorize . Most verbs you will find are action verbs.

List of action verbs

Examples of action verbs in a sentence.

Each of these sentences uses action verbs. You’ll see that each verb is referring to a physical or mental action.

• I work at a factory.
• Cats chase mice.
• We listened to the woman’s amazing story.

 2. Stative verbs

Unlike action verbs, stative verbs refer to conditions or states of being . Generally speaking, we use stative verbs to describe things like qualities, states of existence, opinions, beliefs, and emotions. When used in a sentence, stative verbs do not refer to actions. It is important to know that some verbs can be used as either action or stative verbs depending on their meaning in the sentence. We are less likely to use stative verbs in the continuous verb tenses .

List of stative verbs

Get to know the stative verb have even better with this examination of has vs. have .

Examples of stative verbs in a sentence

These sentences all use stative verbs. You’ll notice that none of these verbs refer to actions.

• The mansion has five bathrooms.
• Allie loves her younger sisters.
• My car needs an oil change.

3. Transitive verbs

A transitive verb is a verb that is accompanied by a direct object in a sentence. The direct object is the noun , pronoun , or noun phrase that is having something done to it by the subject of the sentence. Both action and stative verbs can have direct objects, which means they can both be used as transitive verbs.

Examples of transitive verbs in a sentence

The following sentences all contain examples of transitive verbs. As you read each one, consider what the direct object of the sentence is.

• Leonardo ate a delicious pepperoni pizza.
• The wealthy man bought three paintings.
• She really hates broccoli.

4. Intransitive verbs

The opposite of a transitive verb is an intransitive verb . A verb is an intransitive verb if it is not used with a direct object. Remember, only nouns, pronouns, and  noun phrases can be direct objects. Prepositional phrases , adjectives , and adverbs cannot be used as direct objects. Once again, both action and stative verbs can be used as intransitive verbs.

Examples intransitive verbs in a sentence

Each of these sentences uses intransitive verbs. Look carefully and you will see that none of these sentences have direct objects.

• Airplanes fly .
• The children slept while the adults worked.
• The terrified monkeys hid in the trees after they saw the gigantic hungry snake.

5. Linking verbs

Linking verbs are a special type of stative verb whose name gives a big clue as to what they do. Linking verbs are used to link a subject with a subject complement . A subject complement describes or identifies the subject of the sentence or clause. Linking verbs can function as intransitive verbs, which do not take direct objects.

List of words used as linking verbs

Examples of linking verbs in a sentence.

In each of the following sentences, linking verbs are used to link a subject with a subject complement.

• Mike is a great dancer.
• That gold watch looks expensive.
• Suddenly, the mall got really crowded.

6. Helping verbs (auxiliary verbs)

Helping verbs, also called auxiliary verbs, are helpful verbs that work with other verbs to change the meaning of a sentence. A helping verb combines with a main verb in order to accomplish different goals. These include changing the tense of the verb or altering the mood of a sentence.

List of words used as helping verbs

Examples of helping verbs in a sentence.

Each of the following sentences uses a helping verb. Take a moment to consider what each sentence is saying and how a helping verb contributes to the meaning of the sentence.

• The musician has performed in concerts all over the world.
• My cat is getting slow in her old age.
• Cheetahs can run incredibly fast.

7. Modal verbs

Modal verbs are a subgroup of helping verbs that are used to give a sentence a specific mood. Each modal verb is used differently, and they can express concepts such as ability, necessity, possibility, or permission.

List of verbs used as modal verbs

Examples of modal verbs in a sentence.

The following sentences all use modal verbs to express a certain tone. You’ll see that each sentence would have a different meaning (or wouldn’t make sense) without the modal verb.

• Once you finish your homework, you may play outside.
• We must carefully add two eggs to the mixing bowl.
• I would go to the movies if I wasn’t busy working.

Learn about one certain mood that confuses many: the subjunctive mood.

8. Regular verbs

A verb is considered a regular verb if its past tense form and past participle ends in -ed , -d , or the verb is a -t variant verb. For example, the verb look is a regular verb because both its past tense form and past participle is looked . Sometimes, regular verbs may slightly change spelling. For example, the past tense and past participle of cry is cried .

List of regular verbs

• jump becomes jumped
• slip becomes slipped
• try becomes tried
• sleep becomes slept
• lend becomes lent

Examples of regular verbs in a sentence

Each of the following sentences use regular verbs in either their past tense form or as a past participle.

• He walked two miles to the post office.
• We purchased all of the supplies that we needed for the camping trip.
• Tiffany had noticed something strange about Marcus’s story.

9. Irregular verbs

An irregular verb is a verb whose past tense and past participle form doesn’t end in -ed , -d , and doesn’t use the – t variant. Often, the spelling of these verbs changes dramatically or may not even change at all.

List of irregular verbs

• be becomes am , is , are , was , were , be , being , and been
• eat becomes ate , eaten
• fly becomes flew , flown
• catch becomes caught , caught
• set becomes set , set

Examples of irregular verbs in a sentence

The following sentences use irregular verbs. Despite being used in the past tense or as a past participle, none of these verbs end in -ed , -d , or are a -t variant verb.

• Cindy knew all of the right answers.
• This junky computer has given me nothing but headaches since I bought it.
• The workers took the furniture out of the moving truck.

10. Phrasal verbs

Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb with prepositions and/or adverbs that have a different meaning from the individual words used to form them. For example, the verb shut means “to close,” and the adverb down means “not up” or “in a descending direction.” However, the phrasal verb shut down means to stop the operation of something.

List of phrasal verbs

• put up with
• talk down to

Examples of phrasal verbs in a sentence

The following sentences show how we can use phrasal verbs. Sometimes, we can separate out the words of a phrasal verb and the sentence is still grammatically correct.

• The frustrated business owner closed down his store.
• Dave loves to show off his baseball trophies.
• My mother always told me it is a good idea to put some money away in case of emergencies.

11. Infinitives

Our last type of verb isn’t actually a verb at all —sorry about that! However, infinitives look a lot like verbs because they are derived from them. An infinitive of a verb is identical to the base form of the verb. For example, the infinitive form of the verb open is open . Typically, we use infinitives with the word to in order to form infinitive phrases. Infinitive phrases can be used for a variety of reasons, such as to act like nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.

Examples of infinitive phrases in a sentence

All of the following sentences use infinitive phrases. In order, the infinitive phrases are acting as a noun ( nominal infinitive), an adjective ( adjectival infinitive), and an adverb ( adverbial infinitive).

• To play guitar in a rock band is my goal.
• If you are looking for the best restaurants in town, Luis is the person to ask .
• The writing in the letter was too small to see .

Find out how well you know the types of verbs by taking this quiz!

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Nouns - Person, Place or Thing

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Definition of adjective

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of adjective  (Entry 2 of 2)

Did you know?

What is an adjective ?

Adjectives describe or modify—that is, they limit or restrict the meaning of—nouns and pronouns. They may name qualities of all kinds: huge , red , angry , tremendous , unique , rare , etc.

An adjective usually comes right before a noun: "a red dress," " fifteen people." When an adjective follows a linking verb such as be or seem , it is called a predicate adjective : "That building is huge ," "The workers seem happy ." Most adjectives can be used as predicate adjectives, although some are always used before a noun. Similarly, a few adjectives can only be used as predicate adjectives and are never used before a noun.

Some adjectives describe qualities that can exist in different amounts or degrees. To do this, the adjective will either change in form (usually by adding -er or -est ) or will be used with words like more, most, very, slightly, etc.: "the older girls," "the longest day of the year," "a very strong feeling," " more expensive than that one." Other adjectives describe qualities that do not vary—" nuclear energy," "a medical doctor"—and do not change form.

The four demonstrative adjectives — this , that , these , and those —are identical to the demonstrative pronouns . They are used to distinguish the person or thing being described from others of the same category or class. This and these describe people or things that are nearby, or in the present. That and those are used to describe people or things that are not here, not nearby, or in the past or future. These adjectives, like the definite and indefinite articles ( a , an, and the ), always come before any other adjectives that modify a noun.

An indefinite adjective describes a whole group or class of people or things, or a person or thing that is not identified or familiar. The most common indefinite adjectives are: all, another, any, both, each, either, enough, every, few, half, least, less, little, many, more, most, much, neither, one (and two, three , etc.), other, several, some, such, whole .

The interrogative adjectives —primarily which , what , and whose —are used to begin questions. They can also be used as interrogative pronouns .

Which horse did you bet on? = Which did you bet on? What songs did they sing? = What did they sing? Whose coat is this? = Whose is this?

The possessive adjectives — my , your , his , her , its , our , their —tell you who has, owns, or has experienced something, as in "I admired her candor, " Our cat is 14 years old," and "They said their trip was wonderful."

Nouns often function like adjectives. When they do, they are called attributive nouns .

When two or more adjectives are used before a noun, they should be put in proper order. Any article ( a , an , the ), demonstrative adjective ( that , these, etc.), indefinite adjective ( another , both , etc.), or possessive adjective ( her , our , etc.) always comes first. If there is a number, it comes first or second. True adjectives always come before attributive nouns. The ordering of true adjectives will vary, but the following order is the most common:

opinion word → size → age → shape → color → nationality → material.

Participles are often used like ordinary adjectives. They may come before a noun or after a linking verb . A present participle (an -ing word) describes the person or thing that causes something; for example, a boring conversation is one that bores you. A past participle (usually an -ed word) describes the person or thing who has been affected by something; for example, a bored person is one who has been affected by boredom.

They had just watched an exciting soccer game. The instructions were confusing. She's excited about the trip to North Africa. Several confused students were asking questions about the test. The lake was frozen.

Examples of adjective in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'adjective.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English adjectif, borrowed from Anglo-French & Late Latin; Anglo-French adjectyf, borrowed from Late Latin adjectīvum, from neuter of adjectivus adjective entry 2 (as translation of Greek epítheton )

Middle English adjectif, borrowed from Anglo-French & Late Latin; Anglo-French adjectyf, borrowed from Late Latin adjectīvus, from Latin adjectus (past participle of adjicere "to throw at, attach, contribute, add to (in speech or writing)," from ad- ad- + jacere "to throw") + -īvus -ive — more at jet entry 3

14th century, in the meaning defined above

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing adjective

• possessive adjective
• proper adjective

Articles Related to adjective

What is an Adjective?

On Secretly Gendered Language

Word Matters, Episode 78

How to Order Adjectives

Word Matters, Episode 77

Dictionary Entries Near adjective

adjective equivalent

Cite this Entry

“Adjective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adjective. Accessed 8 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of adjective, more from merriam-webster on adjective.

Nglish: Translation of adjective for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of adjective for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about adjective

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