Verbs Starting With Letter A

A Comprehensive Guide to Verbs Starting with the Letter A

This article provides a thorough exploration of verbs beginning with the letter "A," covering their various forms, meanings, and usage in sentences. We'll delve into common verbs, less frequently used ones, and even some phrasal verbs. This guide aims to enhance your vocabulary and understanding of English verb conjugation and application. Understanding the nuances of verbs is crucial for effective communication, both written and spoken. Let's embark on this alphabetical adventure!

Understanding Verb Basics

Before we dive into the "A" verbs, let's briefly refresh our understanding of verbs. Verbs are action words or words that describe a state of being. They are the heart of a sentence, expressing what the subject is doing, feeling, or experiencing. Key aspects of verbs include:

Tense: Indicates the time of the action (past, present, future).
Voice: Shows whether the subject performs the action (active) or receives it (passive).
Mood: Expresses the speaker's attitude toward the action (indicative, imperative, subjunctive).
Aspect: Describes the nature of the action (continuous, perfect, perfect continuous).

Mastering these aspects allows for precise and nuanced expression.

Common Verbs Starting with "A"

Let's begin with some frequently encountered verbs that commence with "A":

1. Abandon: To leave completely and finally; forsake.

Example: He abandoned his dreams of becoming a musician. (Past simple, active voice)
Example: The ship was abandoned at sea. (Past simple, passive voice)

2. Abate: To become less intense or widespread.

Example: The storm began to abate as the evening approached.
Example: His anger gradually abated.

3. Abbreviate: To shorten (a word, phrase, or text).

Example: We can abbreviate "Doctor" to "Dr."
Example: The article was abbreviated for the newsletter.

4. Abduct: To take (someone) away illegally by force or deception; kidnap.

Example: The police are investigating the abduction of the child.
Example: The heiress was abducted from her home.

5. Aberrate: To deviate from what is normal or expected.

Example: His behavior began to aberrate after the accident.
Example: The results aberrated significantly from the predictions.

6. Abhor: To regard with disgust and hatred.

Example: I abhor violence in all its forms.
Example: She abhorred the smell of fish.

7. Abide: To accept or act in accordance with (a rule, decision, or recommendation).

Example: We must abide by the rules of the competition.
Example: He will abide by the court's decision.

8. Abolish: To formally put an end to (a system, practice, or institution).

Example: Slavery was abolished in the United States in 1865.
Example: The government plans to abolish the tax.

9. Absorb: To take in or soak up (a liquid or other substance) by chemical or physical action.

Example: The sponge absorbed the spilled water.
Example: The plant absorbed nutrients from the soil. (This example showcases a metaphorical usage)

10. Abstract: To consider something theoretically or separately from something else. * Example: We need to abstract the key concepts from the data. * Example: The artist attempts to abstract the essence of beauty.

11. Accelerate: To increase the speed of something. * Example: The car accelerated rapidly down the highway. * Example: Efforts to accelerate economic growth were implemented.

Less Common Verbs Starting with "A"

While the above verbs are frequently used, many other "A" verbs exist, though less commonly encountered in everyday conversation. Here are a few examples:

1. Access: To gain entry to, retrieve or make use of something. (Often used in a more technical or formal context).

Example: The team needs to access the confidential files.
Example: The database can be accessed remotely.

2. Acclaim: To praise enthusiastically and publicly.

Example: The film was widely acclaimed by critics.
Example: His work was acclaimed as a masterpiece.

3. Accommodate: To provide lodging or sufficient space for.

Example: The hotel can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Example: We need to accommodate the changes in the schedule.

4. Accord: To grant or give something to someone.

Example: The award was accorded to her in recognition of her achievements.
Example: The country was accorded full diplomatic recognition.

5. Accrue: To accumulate or receive (something, usually benefits or interest) gradually over time.

Example: Interest will accrue on the account daily.
Example: Benefits will accrue to those who invest early.

6. Acetify: To convert into acetic acid; to become sour. (More specialized usage).

Example: Wine can acetify if not stored properly.
Example: The fermentation process acetifies the apple cider.

7. Acknowledge: To accept or admit the truth or existence of something.

Example: He acknowledged his mistakes.
Example: The company acknowledged the problem and offered a solution.

Phrasal Verbs Starting with "A"

Phrasal verbs combine a verb with an adverb or preposition to create a new meaning. Here are a few examples starting with "A":

Account for: To explain or justify something. Example: He had to account for his absence.
Act up: To behave badly or malfunction. Example: The car is acting up again.
Add up: To make sense or seem logical. Example: His story doesn't add up.
Add up to: To total or equal. Example: The costs add up to $1000.
Ask after: To inquire about someone's health or well-being. Example: She asked after her mother.
Ask around: To inquire from several people. Example: I'll ask around about the job opening.
Ask out: To invite someone on a date. Example: He finally asked her out.

A Deeper Dive into Verb Conjugation

Understanding verb conjugation is essential for correct grammar. Let's examine the conjugation of some common "A" verbs:

Verb: Abandon

Tense	Singular	Plural
Present	I abandon, you abandon, he/she/it abandons	We abandon, you abandon, they abandon
Past	I abandoned, you abandoned, he/she/it abandoned	We abandoned, you abandoned, they abandoned
Future	I will abandon, you will abandon, he/she/it will abandon	We will abandon, you will abandon, they will abandon
Present Participle	abandoning	abandoning
Past Participle	abandoned	abandoned

This table demonstrates the basic conjugation. More complex tenses, such as the perfect tenses (present perfect, past perfect, future perfect) and continuous tenses (present continuous, past continuous, future continuous) would require further expansion. Similar tables could be constructed for other verbs starting with "A."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between "abate" and "abandon"?

A: "Abate" refers to the lessening of intensity, while "abandon" signifies complete desertion or relinquishment.

Q: Are all verbs that start with "A" irregular?

A: No, many verbs starting with "A" follow regular conjugation patterns, adding "-ed" for the past simple and past participle. However, some are irregular, meaning they have unique past tense and past participle forms.

Q: How can I improve my understanding of verbs?

A: Consistent reading, writing practice, and studying verb conjugation tables are all effective methods. Use a dictionary and thesaurus to explore different verb meanings and synonyms.

Q: Where can I find more information on verb usage?

A: A comprehensive English grammar textbook or online resources dedicated to grammar and vocabulary will provide further detail.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide has explored a wide range of verbs starting with the letter "A," encompassing common and less frequently used examples, as well as phrasal verbs. Understanding the diverse meanings and conjugations of these verbs is a crucial step in expanding your vocabulary and mastering the English language. Remember that consistent practice and engagement with the language are key to solidifying your understanding and improving your communication skills. Continue to explore the fascinating world of verbs – they are the dynamic building blocks of effective communication!