Give vs. Give: What’s the Difference?
Hey there! Ever found yourself second-guessing whether to use “give” or “gives” in your sentences? Or wondered why some sentences sound right while others don’t? Don't worry—you’re not alone. These common confusions pop up because English verbs can be tricky, especially when it comes to their forms and usage. Today, I’ll clear up the confusion once and for all. Whether you're a student, a professional writer, or just someone looking to sharpen your grammar skills, this guide is for you.
The Big Question: What’s the Difference Between "Give" and "Gives"?
At first glance, "give" and "gives" look similar, but they serve different grammatical roles. Let’s break it down clearly so you get it right every time.
What Is "Give" — Definition and Usage
Definition:
Give is the base form of the verb. It's used when the subject in the sentence is in the first person (I, we), second person (you), or the plural form in the present tense.
Usage:
- Used with I, we, you, and they.
- It appears in the present tense.
- Used in imperative sentences and in infinitive form ("to give").
Examples:
- I give my best every day.
- They give great presentations.
- Please give me a call later.
What Is "Gives" — Definition and Usage
Definition:
Gives is the third person singular present tense form of the verb give. It’s used when the subject is he, she, or it.
Usage:
- Used with he, she, or it.
- Indicates an action happening regularly or currently in the present tense.
Examples:
- She gives incredible speeches.
- The dog gives me paw every morning.
- He gives excellent advice.
Summary Table: Give vs. Gives
| Aspect | Give | Gives |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Base form | Third person singular form |
| Present tense use | Yes | Yes |
| Subjects suitable | I, we, you, they | He, she, it |
| Example sentence | I give you my word. | She gives her best every day. |
How to Choose the Correct Form
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to selecting the right verb form:
- Step 1: Identify the subject.
- Step 2: Determine if the subject is singular or plural.
- Step 3: Apply the rule:
- If the subject is he, she, or it, use gives.
- For I, we, you, they, use give.
Tips for Success When Using "Give" and "Gives"
- Remember the subject-verb agreement: Singular subjects like “she” and “it” require gives.
- Keep in mind the tense—these are present tense forms. Past tense is "gave" regardless of the subject.
- Practice by creating sentences with both forms to reinforce the rule.
- Use grammar checking tools or apps to double-check your sentences.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Correct Approach | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Saying "He give a gift" | Say "He gives a gift" | Subject-verb agreement: third person singular needs gives. |
| Using "gives" with plural subjects like "they" | Say "They give excellent reviews" | "They" is plural; always use give. |
| Forgetting the -s in third person singular | Always check the subject before the verb | The -s is essential in third person singular present tense. |
Similar Variations and Forms
- Past tense: gave
- Example: Yesterday, I gave you my book.
- Present perfect: have/has given
- Example: They have given a lot of effort.
- Future tense: will give
- Example: I will give my best tomorrow.
Why Is Correct Usage Important?
Using "give" and "gives" properly isn’t just about sounding good; it’s about clarity and credibility. Accurate grammar helps your message be understood precisely and makes you appear professional. Whether you’re writing an email, an essay, or a report, correct verb forms ensure your communication is smooth and effective.
Practice Exercises to Master "Give" vs. "Gives"
1. Fill-in-the-Blank:
- She ____ (give/gives) excellent advice during meetings.
- I ____ (give/gives) my time generously.
- They ____ (give/gives) us many good reasons.
2. Error Correction:
- He give me a call yesterday.
- They gives us plenty of options.
- She give her best at every game.
3. Identification:
- Is this sentence correct? "He give his opinion."
- Correct the sentence if needed.
4. Sentence Construction:
- Construct a sentence using "give" with the subject "we."
- Construct a sentence using "gives" with the subject "she."
5. Category Matching:
Match the subject with the correct verb form:
| Subject | Correct Verb Form |
|---|---|
| I | give |
| You | give |
| He | gives |
| They | give |
| It | gives |
Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up
To wrap it up, mastering the difference between "give" and "gives" is straightforward once you remember the subject-verb agreement rules. Practice consistently, pay attention to the subject, and soon it’ll become second nature. Remember, correct grammar isn’t just for impressing others—it’s about communicating clearly and confidently. So, keep practicing, stay curious, and you'll soon become a pro at using these forms correctly.
Bonus: Quick Cheat Sheet
- "Give" — use with I, we, you, they (present tense)
- "Gives" — use with he, she, it (present tense)
- Past tense: gave
- Future tense: will give
Thanks for sticking with me! Keep practicing, and you'll master these little verb forms in no time. And remember: good grammar makes your message shine!