What Are Irregular Verbs? List and Examples

Irregular verbs in English are verbs that do not follow the standard rules of conjugation in the past tense and past participle forms. 

Unlike regular verbs, which typically add "-ed" to the base form to create the past tense (e.g., walk --> walked), irregular verbs have unique and unpredictable changes. These variations must be memorized, as there are no consistent patterns.

In English, many of the most commonly used verbs are irregular. Some Irregular verb examples include the verb "go" which changes to "went" in the past tense, and "eat" which changes to "ate." 

Some irregular verbs have the same form in the base, past, and past participle (e.g., "cut"), while others have different forms for each (e.g., "begin" --> "began" --> "begun").

Irregular Verbs List

Understanding irregular verbs involves memorizing their various forms, as they do not follow a consistent pattern. 

Below is a comprehensive list of irregular verbs with their base form, past simple, and past participle forms. 

Common Irregular Verbs that Don’t Change

In English grammar, some irregular verbs remain unchanged in their base, past tense, and past participle forms. Knowing these verbs can simplify language learning and enhance your fluency in everyday conversations and writing.

Here are some examples of common irregular verbs that remain unchanged:

• bet: bet / bet / bet
• bid: bid / bid / bid
• broadcast: broadcast / broadcast / broadcast
• burst: burst / burst / burst
• cast: cast / cast / cast
• cost: cost / cost / cost
• cut: cut / cut / cut
• hit: hit / hit / hit
• hurt: hurt / hurt / hurt
• let: let / let / let
• proofread: proofread / proofread / proofread
• put: put / put / put
• read (pronounced differently): read / read / read
• reset: reset / reset / reset
• set: set / set / set
• shed: shed / shed / shed
• shut: shut / shut / shut
• split: split / split / split
• spread: spread / spread / spread
• thrust: thrust / thrust / thrust
• upset: upset / upset / upset
• wet: wet / wet / wet

Tips for Using Irregular Verbs

By focusing on these tips, you can improve your understanding and proficiency in using irregular verbs in the past tense, distinguish them from regular verbs, and apply them effectively in the present perfect tense.

1. Memorize Common Irregular Verbs: Focus on frequently used irregular verbs like "be," "have," "do," and "go" as they appear in various tenses.
2. Pay Attention to Past Tense and Past Participle Forms: Many irregular verbs have different forms for the past tense and past participle. Pay attention to these forms to use them correctly.
3. Use Context to Determine Correct Forms: Understanding the context of a sentence helps you choose the appropriate form of the irregular verb, ensuring accurate and natural usage.
4. Consult Reference Materials: Keep a grammar reference or dictionary handy to check irregular verb forms when in doubt.

All in all, understanding irregular verbs in English is crucial for mastering the language's grammar and enhancing communication skills. 

By practicing these verbs in context, consulting reference materials, and engaging in exercises, you can confidently use them in everyday conversations and written expressions.

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