Many common errors result from failure to select the right pattern of words to use after a particular verb. Verbs can be grouped according to the pattern required, as follows:
1. Linking verbs: These are verbs which link the subject with its complement: be, seem, look, feel, become, taste, etc. The complement may be:-
a. A noun phrase, e.g. He is a Nigerian. b. An adjective or adjectival phrase: I feel hungry, He is angry with you; It is difficult to find him. c. A that-clause: It appears that she has retuned. d. An adverbial: He is at home.
2. Verbs with one subject: The object may be:-
a. a noun phrase: He wrote the letter.
b. A that-clause: You said that I could go.
c. To + infinitive: He wants to go.
d. An ing participle: She likes sewing.
e. To + infinitive preceded by a subject: He wanted me to come.
f. Infinitive without to, preceded by a subject: He made me come.
g. An "ing" participle preceded by a subject: We heard him singing.
h. An "ed" participle preceded by a subject: He got the job finished.
3. Verbs with two objects: The main patterns are:-
a. Indirect object + direct object: He gave me some money [me indirect object; some money direct object].
b. Object + preposition + object of preposition: / supply the College with eggs; a/so: / supply eggs to the College.
c. Noun phrase + that-clause: You told me that you were leaving.
4. Verbs with object and object compliment: The complement may be:-
a. A noun phrase: They elected him President
b. An adjective or adjective phrase: They thought him very rude.
c. As or for + noun phrase: They regarded him as a fool; they mistook him for a thief.
d. As + adjective: He considered the battle as won.
5. Verbs with no object e.g. Rain is falling. My father has arrived: Verbs with objects are sometimes called TRANSITIVE VERBS; verbs with no objects INTRANSITIVE VERBS