Stative vs Dynamic

Dynamic verbs (action) vs. Stative verbs (states)

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Stative verbs describe STATES (permanent)

• I have three daughters.

• I don't own a car.

• She is very nice.

Dynamic verbs (action) vs. Stative verbs (states)

Dynamic - action "you can see the action" beginning and end.

Stative - state is considered permanent.

Dynamic verbs can be used in simple present AND in present continuous.

Stative verbs are never continuous (because they are not temporary). 

THINK

• What is he thinking about? (dynamic)

  
  

• What does he think (believe)? (his opinion)

LOOK

• What is she looking at? (dynamic) action

• How does she look? (stative) appearance (description)

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? : I own a bicycle.

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? She has three brothers.

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? Can you help me? I am looking for a place to stay.

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? She thinks that I am crazy.

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? They are thinking about moving to California.

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

Is this dynamic or stative? She knows how to speak four languages

• dynamic

• stative

Multiple Choice

What ________ at? - I am looking at this funny black dog.

• do you look

• are you looking

Multiple Choice

How ________ ? -I think you are gorgeous

• do I look

• am I looking