Linking Verbs

Question 1

When an adjective or a noun phrase is used after a verb, the verb is a linking verb.
Linking verbs are:
be, keep, prove, remain, stay;
become, come, end up, grow, turn out;
appear, look, seem, sound.

Question 2

After the verb appear, look, prove, seem, turn out, can be included or not the expression TO BE.
After these verbs, TO BE is always included before the adjectives: alive, alone, asleep, awake, and ING forms.
In formal English, leave out TO BE.

Answer 2

The room appears (to be) brighter than I last saw it.

I didn’t go in because she appeared to be asleep.

He walked into what seemed to be a cave.

Question 3

Use GET instead of become:
informal, before difficult, ill, interested, pregnant, suspicious, unhappy, worried, get changed, get dressed, get married/divorce.

Answer 3

I first got suspicious when I saw her.
Don’t get upset about it.

Question 4

Use become to a more abstract or technical process.

Answer 4

He became recognized as an expert.

Question 5

Use GO to talk about changes in situations.

Answer 5

The company went bust and had to close.

Question 6

Use come, get and grow to gradually changes.

Answer 6

I came (grew) to appreciate his work. (not become).