Verb phrases having do or did for the first word are called emphatic phrases because they are sometimes used for the sake of emphasis. They occur only in the present tense and in the past tense; thus, I do praise. I did praise.

These phrases are used without any emphatic force in interrogative sentences and in negative sentences; thus, Do you praise? I do not praise.

Exercise 281

Classify each verb phrase as copulative or attributive. As transitive or intransitive.

Give the tense of each verb phrase. If it is in the progressive or the emphatic form, mention that fact. Name each verb form.

1. Are they trying to help the child?

2. Don't you remember that old tree?

3. I was running around the corner before I heard the last word of the report.

4. Though he had seen her many times he did not recognize her.

5. She had been trying a long time before she lost her patience.

6. Had he told the truth before the officer arrested him?

7. Shall you be at the party?

8. Are you going to the post office?

9. Did you forget your errand?

10. Will they pass through Washington?

11. As I was crossing the bridge I saw that the river had risen alarmingly.

12. You will have finished the book before I shall need it.

13. I shall be thinking of you when you take the steamer at New York.

14. I have been working at the task for an hour.

15. I really do try although you do not see great results.

16. I shall have visited Washington and Florida before I see you again.

17. The child will surely hurt itself.

18. Have you been studying your lesson?

19. The grain is getting ripe.

20. I shall be glad to see you.

Exercise 282. Development

Mary broke the dish. The dish was broken by Mary. Mary will make the cake. The cake will be made by Mary. Many people have seen the mistake. The mistake has been seen by many.

Few people possess wisdom. Wisdom is possessed by few. Every one needs a good education. A good education is needed by every one.

Classify each verb phrase (1) as copulative or attributive, and (2) as transitive or intransitive. Tell what each predicate attribute expresses. Tell what each subject of thought has to do with the attribute expressed.

The verb or verb phrase in the first of each pair of sentences is said to be in the active voice. The verb phrases in the other sentences are said to be in the passive voice.