The first person plural form of the verb "to be" is are.
Understanding "To Be" and Its Forms
The verb "to be" is an essential and highly irregular verb in the English language. It performs various grammatical functions, such as connecting a subject to a noun or adjective, indicating existence, or forming parts of continuous (progressive) and passive verb tenses. Its form changes significantly depending on the subject's person (first, second, third) and number (singular, plural).
When we refer to the first person plural, we are speaking from the perspective of "we." This form is used when the speaker is part of a group of two or more individuals.
The Conjugation of "To Be" (Present Tense)
To illustrate the specific form of the first person plural, observe how "to be" conjugates in the present simple tense for all persons and numbers:
| Person | Singular Form | Plural Form |
|---|---|---|
| First Person | I am | We are |
| Second Person | You are | You are |
| Third Person | He/She/It is | They are |
As the table clearly shows, the first person plural form of "to be" is consistently "are." This form pairs exclusively with the subject "we."
Examples in Context
Here are some practical examples demonstrating how "we are" is used in sentences:
- We are planning a trip to the mountains next month.
- We are a team dedicated to innovation.
- We are excited about the upcoming project.
- We are currently reviewing the proposals.
- We are capable of overcoming any challenge.
Why "We Are" Matters
The correct application of "we are" is fundamental for achieving clear and grammatically precise communication. It ensures proper subject-verb agreement, which is a cornerstone of English grammar. Incorrect usage, such as "we is" or "we am," would lead to grammatical errors and potential miscommunication. A firm grasp of this specific conjugation helps speakers and writers accurately convey actions, states of being, and relationships within sentences. For more comprehensive information on the verb "to be" and its conjugations, you can consult reputable English grammar resources like the Cambridge Dictionary.
