Is The Word As A Linking Verb

The word "as" is a versatile word in the English language, capable of functioning as a conjunction, preposition, adverb, or pronoun. However, its role as a linking verb is less commonly discussed and often a point of confusion. While "as" doesn't traditionally function as a linking verb in the same way that "is," "are," "was," or "were" do, it can participate in constructions that resemble linking verb structures, conveying a sense of equivalence or similarity.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the nuances of "as" and its potential association with linking verbs. We'll delve into its various grammatical roles, examine constructions where "as" appears to function like a linking verb, and provide clarity on how to differentiate these uses from other grammatical functions. By the end of this discussion, you'll have a robust understanding of "as" and its place in the landscape of English grammar.

Understanding Linking Verbs

Before diving into the intricacies of "as," it’s essential to understand what linking verbs are and how they operate within a sentence.

Definition and Function

A linking verb, also known as a copula, connects the subject of a sentence to a noun or adjective that describes or identifies the subject. Unlike action verbs that show action, linking verbs describe a state of being or a condition.

Common Linking Verbs

The most common linking verb is "to be" in its various forms: "is," "are," "was," "were," "am," "be," "been," and "being." Other verbs that can function as linking verbs include:

• Sense Verbs: look, smell, taste, sound, feel
• Verbs of Becoming: become, seem, appear, grow, turn, prove, remain

Examples of Linking Verbs in Sentences:

1. She is a doctor. (Here, "is" links the subject "She" to the noun "doctor," which identifies her.)
2. The soup tastes delicious. (Here, "tastes" links the subject "soup" to the adjective "delicious," which describes it.)
3. He became angry. (Here, "became" links the subject "He" to the adjective "angry," indicating a change in state.)

In each of these examples, the linking verb serves as a bridge between the subject and a subject complement, which is a noun or adjective that provides additional information about the subject.

The Multifaceted Nature of "As"

The word "as" is remarkably versatile, capable of fulfilling several grammatical roles, which include:

1. Conjunction:

As a conjunction, "as" connects words, phrases, or clauses. It can express various relationships, such as time, cause, or manner.

• Time: As I was walking down the street, I saw a friend.
• Cause: As it was raining, we stayed inside.
• Manner: Do as you are told.

2. Preposition:

As a preposition, "as" introduces a prepositional phrase and typically indicates a role, function, or characteristic.

• He worked as a teacher.
• She was known as a talented artist.

3. Adverb:

As an adverb, "as" often appears in comparative constructions, indicating a degree or extent.

• He is as tall as his brother.
• She ran as fast as she could.

4. Pronoun:

In certain constructions, "as" can function as a relative pronoun, though this usage is less common and often considered archaic.

• This is the same book as I read last year.

"As" in Constructions Resembling Linking Verbs

The complexity arises when "as" appears in sentences that seem to mimic the structure of linking verbs. Let's examine some examples:

1. He regards her as a friend.

   In this sentence, "as" connects "her" to "a friend," suggesting that "a friend" is a role or identity assigned to "her" by "him." It might appear that "regards" is the linking verb, and "as a friend" acts as a complement. However, the verb "regards" is actually an action verb indicating the act of considering or thinking about someone in a particular way. The phrase "as a friend" is a prepositional phrase modifying "regards."

2. They appointed him as chairman.

   Here, "as" connects "him" to "chairman," suggesting that "chairman" is the new role or position that he has been given. Similar to the previous example, "appointed" is an action verb indicating the act of assigning someone to a role. The phrase "as chairman" is a prepositional phrase modifying "appointed," indicating the capacity in which he was appointed.

3. She described the event as a success.

   In this example, "as" connects "the event" to "a success," suggesting that "a success" is how she characterized or viewed the event. The verb "described" is an action verb indicating the act of giving an account of something. The phrase "as a success" is a prepositional phrase modifying "described," indicating the manner in which the event was described.

In each of these cases, "as" is functioning as a preposition introducing a prepositional phrase, rather than as a linking verb. The verb in the sentence is an action verb, and the phrase following "as" provides additional information about the action.

Distinguishing "As" from True Linking Verbs

To determine whether "as" is functioning in a way that resembles a linking verb, it's crucial to differentiate its uses from those of true linking verbs. Here are some guidelines:

1. Identify the Main Verb: The first step is to identify the main verb in the sentence. If the verb is an action verb that describes an activity or event, then "as" is likely part of a prepositional phrase rather than acting as a linking verb.

2. Test for Substitution: With true linking verbs, you can often substitute a form of "to be" (such as "is" or "seems") without significantly altering the meaning of the sentence. If you can't substitute "as" with "is" or another linking verb, it's likely not functioning as a linking verb.

   • Example with Linking Verb: The flower smells sweet. (The flower is sweet.)
   • Example with "As": They regard him as a leader. (They regard him is a leader.) - This substitution doesn't work because "regard" is an action verb that requires a prepositional phrase to complete its meaning.

3. Analyze the Relationship: Linking verbs establish a direct equivalence or state of being between the subject and the subject complement. "As" often indicates a perceived role, function, or description, which isn't the same as a direct equivalence.

   • Linking Verb: She is a teacher. (Here, "is" directly identifies her as a teacher.)
   • "As": He worked as a teacher. (Here, "as a teacher" describes his role, not his inherent identity.)

4. Consider the Phrase's Function: The phrase following "as" typically functions as an adverbial or adjectival modifier, providing additional information about the verb or the object of the verb. With true linking verbs, the complement renames or describes the subject.

Grammatical Explanations and Perspectives

From a grammatical perspective, "as" primarily functions as a preposition or conjunction in the types of sentences we've been discussing. In traditional grammar, "as" is not classified as a linking verb.

Modern Grammar and Usage: Modern grammar recognizes the flexibility of language and acknowledges that words can sometimes function in ways that blur traditional boundaries. However, even in modern approaches, "as" is not typically considered a linking verb. Instead, constructions involving "as" are analyzed in terms of prepositional phrases, adverbial clauses, or other established grammatical categories.

Cognitive Grammar: Cognitive grammar, which emphasizes the cognitive processes underlying language, might argue that "as" in constructions like "regard as" or "describe as" creates a conceptual blending, where two entities are mapped onto each other to create a specific meaning. However, even within this framework, "as" is not reclassified as a linking verb but is understood as part of a complex cognitive operation.

Practical Examples and Exercises

To further solidify your understanding, let's look at some practical examples and exercises:

Examples:

1. The audience perceived the play as a masterpiece.

   • Analysis: "Perceived" is an action verb. "As a masterpiece" is a prepositional phrase modifying "perceived," indicating how the play was perceived. "As" is functioning as a preposition.

2. He acted as the mediator between the two parties.

   • Analysis: "Acted" is an action verb. "As the mediator" is a prepositional phrase modifying "acted," indicating his role. "As" is functioning as a preposition.

3. She seems happy.

   • Analysis: "Seems" is a linking verb. "Happy" is an adjective describing "She." No "as" is present, illustrating a classic linking verb construction.

Exercises:

Identify whether "as" is functioning as a preposition in the following sentences. If it is, identify the action verb it modifies:

1. They considered him as a valuable asset to the company.
2. She worked as a consultant for several years.
3. The critic reviewed the film as innovative and thought-provoking.
4. He is as clever as his sister.

Answers:

1. Yes, "considered" is the action verb.
2. Yes, "worked" is the action verb.
3. Yes, "reviewed" is the action verb.
4. No, "as" is functioning as an adverb in a comparative construction.

Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

One common misconception is that any word that connects two parts of a sentence is a linking verb. Linking verbs have a specific function: to connect the subject to a complement that describes or identifies the subject. "As" often connects elements in a sentence but does so in a way that indicates a role, function, or description rather than a direct equivalence.

Another misconception is that the phrase following "as" is always a subject complement. In constructions like "regard as" or "describe as," the phrase following "as" is typically a prepositional phrase that modifies the verb, providing additional information about the action.

Advanced Considerations

For advanced learners and grammar enthusiasts, it's worth noting that the line between different grammatical categories can sometimes be blurry. Some linguists argue that certain verbs can function as both action verbs and linking verbs depending on the context. However, even in these cases, "as" does not independently function as a linking verb. Instead, it forms part of a larger construction that may resemble a linking verb structure.

Additionally, the use of "as" can vary across different dialects and registers of English. Some constructions may be more common or accepted in certain regions or social groups.

Conclusion

In summary, while "as" is a versatile word with various grammatical functions, it does not typically function as a linking verb in the same way that "is," "are," "was," or "were" do. Instead, "as" often appears in constructions where it serves as a preposition, introducing a prepositional phrase that modifies an action verb. These constructions may resemble linking verb structures, but the key difference lies in the function of the main verb and the relationship between the elements being connected.

By understanding the different roles of "as" and how it interacts with other parts of speech, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of English grammar and improve your ability to analyze and construct grammatically correct and stylistically effective sentences.

How do you feel about the subtle differences between action verbs and linking verbs when "as" is involved? Are there any other grammar topics you'd like to explore further?