Auxiliary meaning

Auxiliary means providing additional support or help.


Auxiliary definitions

Word backwards yrailixua
Part of speech The word "auxiliary" is an adjective.
Syllabic division au-xil-li-ar-y
Plural The plural of the word "auxiliary" is "auxiliaries."
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) a,u,i
Consonants (4) x,l,r,y

An auxiliary, also known as an auxiliary verb or helping verb, is a verb used in combination with the main verb in a sentence to create different tenses, moods, voices, and aspects. Auxiliaries are essential for forming grammatically correct sentences and conveying precise meanings.

Types of Auxiliary Verbs

There are three main types of auxiliary verbs: primary auxiliaries, modal auxiliaries, and semi-auxiliaries. Primary auxiliaries include forms of the verb "to be," "to have," and "to do," which help form tenses such as the present continuous, past perfect, and simple future. Modal auxiliaries such as "can," "should," and "might" express possibility, necessity, or permission. Semi-auxiliaries function as both main verbs and auxiliaries, such as "have to," "be going to," and "used to."

Function of Auxiliaries

Auxiliaries serve various functions in a sentence, including forming questions, creating negative statements, expressing tense, mood, aspect, and emphasis, and indicating the speaker's attitude or certainty regarding a statement. For example, in the sentence "She has finished her homework," the auxiliary verb "has" indicates the completion of the action.

Placement of Auxiliaries

Auxiliary verbs are typically placed before the main verb in a sentence, such as "I am reading a book." However, in questions, auxiliaries come before the subject, as in "Are you coming with us?" In negative statements, the auxiliary is accompanied by "not," like in "They do not like spicy food."

Importance of Auxiliaries

Auxiliaries play a crucial role in English grammar by conveying nuanced meanings, indicating the time of an action, showing possibility or necessity, and altering the tone of a sentence. Understanding how to use auxiliary verbs correctly enhances communication skills and helps speakers express themselves accurately and effectively.


Auxiliary Examples

  1. John works as an auxiliary nurse at the hospital.
  2. The auxiliary generator kicked in when the power went out.
  3. She used an auxiliary cable to connect her phone to the speaker.
  4. The auxiliary police officer helped direct traffic during the parade.
  5. We hired an auxiliary accountant to help with the year-end financial reports.
  6. The auxiliary fuel tank on the truck provided extra range for long trips.
  7. The auxiliary verb "do" is often used to form questions and negations in English.
  8. The auxiliary bishop assisted the main bishop during the church service.
  9. An auxiliary camera on the back of the car helped with parking.
  10. The auxiliary heating system keeps the house warm in the winter.


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  • Updated 21/05/2024 - 09:45:30