Top 100 Commonly Used Verbs that Start with A

Alison Darnbough

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Top 100 Commonly Used Verbs that Start with A

Verbs are the backbone of any language. They form the core of most sentences by expressing actions, states of being, or occurrences. Mastering commonly used verbs can significantly improve both spoken and written communication. In this article, we will dive into top 100 commonly used verbs that start with the A, exploring their meanings, usage, and how they contribute to fluent language skills.

What is a Verb?

Before we dive into the verbs starting with A, it’s important to understand what a verb actually is. A verb is a word that describes an action, state, or occurrence. Verbs are essential because they tell us what the subject of a sentence is doing (action verbs) or the state it is in (linking verbs).

For example:

  • Action verb: She runs fast.
  • Linking verb: She is happy.

Verbs can be categorized into several types:

  • Action verbs: Express an activity or action.
  • Linking verbs: Connect the subject to a description or condition.
  • Auxiliary verbs: Help the main verb express tense, mood, or voice.

Understanding verbs beginning with A expands your ability to express a variety of actions and states in English.

What is a Verb Starting with A?

What is a Verb Starting with A?


When we talk about verbs that start with A, we’re referring to any verb in the English language that begins with the letter “A.” These verbs are used just like any other verb, but their alphabetical placement makes them a unique group to focus on. For example, verbs like “act,” “ask,” and “apply” are all action words starting with A.

What Are Some Examples of Verbs that Start with A?

Here is a table with more examples of verbs that start with A:

VerbExample Sentence
AcceptShe accepted the invitation to the party.
AchieveHe achieved his goal of running a marathon.
ActShe acted bravely during the emergency.
AdaptThe company must adapt to new market trends.
AddPlease add some sugar to the recipe.
AdmireI admire her dedication to the project.
AdmitHe admitted his mistake during the meeting.
AdviseI advise you to start studying earlier.
AdvocateShe advocates for environmental protection.
AffectThe cold weather can affect your health.
AgreeWe all agreed to meet at the restaurant.
AllowThe teacher allowed the students to leave early.
AnnounceThey announced the winners at the ceremony.
ApologizeI apologize for being late to the meeting.
ApplyHe decided to apply for the job at the company.
AppreciateI really appreciate your help with this task.
ApproachShe approached the podium to give her speech.
ApproveThe board approved the new proposal.
ArgueThey often argue about politics.
ArrangeI will arrange the documents for the meeting.
AskShe asked for directions to the nearest hotel.
AssertHe asserted his opinion during the debate.
AssessThe teacher will assess your work at the end of the semester.
AssistShe assisted her colleague with the project.
AssumeWe assumed they would arrive on time.
AssureI assure you that everything will be fine.
AttachPlease attach the report to the email.
AttackThe team attacked the problem from all angles.
AttemptHe will attempt to fix the car this weekend.
AttendShe attended the conference last week.
AttractBright colors attract attention in a crowd.
AvoidShe tries to avoid eating junk food.
AwakeI awoke to the sound of birds outside my window.

More Examples:

AbandonThey abandoned the project due to budget cuts.
AbsolveThe judge absolved the defendant of all charges.
AccelerateThe car began to accelerate quickly.
ActivatePress the button to activate the machine.
AccuseShe accused him of stealing her book.
AccomplishThey accomplished all the tasks before the deadline.
AccumulateOver time, he accumulated a large collection of books.
AcquireShe acquired new skills through online courses.
AdaptWe must adapt to the changing technology.
AddictHe was addicted to playing video games.
AddressWe need to address the issue in the meeting.
AdjustPlease adjust the temperature in the room.
AdvanceThe army advanced towards the enemy territory.
AdvertiseThe company decided to advertise on social media.
AdviseI advise you to reconsider your decision.
AgreeThey agreed to meet at the park later.
AlignThe manager helped align the team’s goals with the company’s mission.
AllegeHe alleged that the company was responsible for the breach.
AnalyzeThe scientist analyzed the data thoroughly.
AnnoyHis constant talking annoys everyone around him.
AnswerShe quickly answered the question in class.
AnticipateWe anticipate a large turnout for the event.
AppearShe appeared tired after the long trip.
ApplyI will apply for a scholarship next semester.
AppointThe manager will appoint a new team leader.
AppraiseThe experts will appraise the value of the painting.
ApproveThe council approved the new policy last night.
AriseNew challenges arise every day in this job.
ArriveThey arrived at the station just in time.
AscertainWe need to ascertain the cause of the problem.
AssembleThey assembled the pieces of the puzzle together.
AssessThe teacher will assess your progress at the end of the week.
AssignShe will assign a partner for the project.

Few More Examples:

AssistI’m here to assist you with your work.
AssociateHe associated the smell with his childhood home.
AssumeDon’t assume that everyone knows the rules.
AssureI can assure you that I will be there on time.
AttachAttach the file to the email before sending it.
AttemptHe attempted to climb the mountain but failed.
AttainShe finally attained the level of success she wanted.
AttractBright flowers attract bees and butterflies.
AuctionThey will auction the painting next week.
AuthorizeThe manager will authorize the budget increase.
AwakenThe loud noise awakened me from my sleep.
AffordCan you afford to buy that new car?
AllotThe teacher will allot each student a specific task.
AlarmThe fire drill alarms everyone at first.
AmplifyThe speaker used a microphone to amplify his voice.
AngleHe tried to angle his approach to gain an advantage.
ApplaudThe audience applauded the performance.
AppreciateI really appreciate your patience and help.
AvailShe didn’t avail herself of the opportunity.

This expanded table provides a broader range of verbs that start with the letter A and example sentences to illustrate their usage. By integrating these verbs into your vocabulary, you’ll be able to enhance both your writing and communication skills.

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Common Types of Verbs That Start with A

Common Types of Verbs That Start with A


In the English language, action verbs starting with A perform different functions depending on the context. Let’s explore the types of verbs that begin with A:

Action Verbs Beginning with A

These verbs describe specific actions performed by the subject.

  • Act – To perform an action or behave in a certain way.
  • Admire – To regard someone or something with respect and appreciation.
  • Advocate – To support or recommend a cause or idea.

State Verbs Beginning with A

These verbs express a state of being or condition, rather than an action.

  • Appear – To become visible or evident.
  • Acknowledge – To recognize the existence or validity of something.

Auxiliary Verbs Starting with A

While auxiliary verbs are not action words, they work alongside main verbs to express tense, mood, or voice.

  • Am – A form of the verb “to be,” used with the present participle to describe actions in progress (e.g., I am going).

The Top 100 Commonly Used Verbs That Start with A

The Top 100 Commonly Used Verbs That Start with A

 
Here is a list of 100 commonly used verbs that start with A:

  1. Accept
  2. Achieve
  3. Act
  4. Adapt
  5. Add
  6. Admire
  7. Admit
  8. Advise
  9. Advocate
  10. Affect
  11. Agree
  12. Alert
  13. Allow
  14. Announce
  15. Apologize
  16. Apply
  17. Appreciate
  18. Approach
  19. Approve
  20. Argue
  21. Arrange
  22. Ask
  23. Assert
  24. Assess
  25. Assist
  26. Assume
  27. Assure
  28. Attach
  29. Attack
  30. Attempt
  31. Attend
  32. Attract
  33. Avoid
  34. Awake
  35. Abandon
  36. Absolve
  37. Accelerate
  38. Activate
  39. Accuse
  40. Accomplish
  41. Accumulate
  42. Achieve
  43. Acquire
  44. Adapt
  45. Addiction
  46. Address
  47. Adjust
  48. Advance
  49. Advertise
  50. Advise
  51. Agree
  52. Align
  53. Allege
  54. Analyze
  55. Annoy
  56. Answer
  57. Anticipate
  58. Appear
  59. Apply
  60. Appoint
  61. Appraise
  62. Approve
  63. Arise
  64. Arrive
  65. Ascertain
  66. Assemble
  67. Assess
  68. Assign
  69. Assist
  70. Associate
  71. Assume
  72. Assure
  73. Attach
  74. Attempt
  75. Attain
  76. Attract
  77. Auction
  78. Authorize
  79. Awaken
  80. Awful
  81. Afford
  82. Allot
  83. Alarm
  84. Amplify
  85. Angle
  86. Applaud
  87. Appreciate
  88. Avail
  89. Achieve
  90. Align
  91. Allege
  92. Amuse
  93. Answer
  94. Apprise
  95. Apportion
  96. Arise
  97. Assail
  98. Assent
  99. Accommodate
  100. Aggravate

This list of verbs starting with A spans across various contexts and can help enrich your vocabulary and communication.

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Practical Applications of Verbs Starting with A

Verb Database

One way to learn and memorize verb words that start with A is by using a verb database. This is a collection of words that can be searched and sorted by categories, such as frequency, relevance, or type of verb.

For example, you could create a digital list of verbs that begin with the letter A to have easy access to them whenever you need them.

Interactive Learning

Interactive tools like quizzes, flashcards, and games help to make learning verbs with the letter A fun and engaging. These tools test your knowledge and encourage you to recall the verbs in different contexts.

Thematic Lists of Verbs

When learning verbs, grouping them into thematic lists can be highly beneficial. Thematic lists help you to see how verbs are used in different contexts, making it easier to remember them and understand their nuances. Here, we’ll explore various thematic categories of verbs that begin with the letter A. This way, you can not only enrich your vocabulary but also use these verbs more effectively in different situations.

1. Verbs Related to Communication

These verbs are crucial for expressing thoughts, giving directions, or conveying messages. They can be used in both formal and informal communication settings.

VerbExample Sentence
AnnounceThe company will announce its new product line next week.
AdviseI advise you to double-check your work before submitting it.
AnswerShe answered all the questions during the interview.
AssertHe asserted his opinion firmly during the debate.
ApologizeShe apologized for the confusion caused by her email.
ArgueThey argue about politics all the time.
AskHe asked me for directions to the nearest restaurant.
AnnoyHis constant interruptions annoy everyone in the meeting.

2. Verbs for Actions and Movement

Verbs in this category describe various physical and figurative actions, movements, or transitions.

VerbExample Sentence
ActShe acted quickly to prevent the fire from spreading.
ArriveThey arrived at the airport just in time for their flight.
AdvanceThe army continued to advance toward the enemy’s position.
AttractThe brightly colored flowers attract bees and butterflies.
AchieveShe worked hard to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor.
AdaptThe animals adapted to their new environment after being relocated.
AccumulateOver the years, he accumulated a vast amount of knowledge in his field.

3. Verbs for Emotional Expression

These verbs describe mental states, feelings, and emotions. They can help convey how someone feels or reacts to a situation.

VerbExample Sentence
AdmireI admire her dedication to helping others.
AgitateThe news about the accident agitated everyone in the office.
AffectThe sad movie deeply affected him.
AllegeHe alleged that the company had violated the agreement.
AngerThe unfair treatment angered the employees.
AppreciateI really appreciate your kindness during this difficult time.
AnticipateWe anticipate a positive outcome for the project.

4. Verbs for Learning and Knowledge

These verbs are tied to gaining information, making decisions, or solving problems. They’re especially useful in academic, professional, or self-development contexts.

VerbExample Sentence
AnalyzeThe scientist will analyze the data before making conclusions.
AssessThe manager will assess your progress after the first quarter.
AskI asked for clarification on the report.
AscertainWe need to ascertain the root cause of the issue.
ApplyYou should apply the knowledge you gained from the workshop in your projects.
AccomplishHe accomplished everything he set out to do in the last year.
AcquireShe worked hard to acquire the skills necessary for the job.

5. Verbs for Helping and Supporting

These verbs describe actions that involve helping, supporting, or giving assistance to others.

VerbExample Sentence
AssistI will assist you in completing your assignment.
AdvocateShe advocates for equal rights in the workplace.
AlleviateThe medicine helped to alleviate his headache.
AidThe volunteers came to aid the survivors of the disaster.
AccommodateThe hotel will accommodate guests with support needs.
AttendHe will attend the conference to learn more about the latest trends.
AppealThe charity appealed to the public for donations.

6. Verbs for Creating and Making

This category focuses on verbs related to creation, construction, or any form of making or building something.

VerbExample Sentence
ArrangeShe will arrange the flowers for the wedding ceremony.
ActivateThe button will activate the system when pressed.
AppointThey will appoint a new manager for the department next week.
AssembleThe team will assemble the new furniture this afternoon.
AlterHe decided to alter his presentation to include more visual aids.
AmendThe contract needs to be amended before it can be signed.
AffixAffix the stamp to the envelope before mailing it.

7. Verbs for Social Interaction and Relationships

These verbs describe interactions, connections, or exchanges between people, reflecting aspects of social life.

VerbExample Sentence
AcquaintHe acquainted himself with the new system.
AppeaseThe manager tried to appease the angry customers.
AmuseThe clown amused the children at the party.
AssociateShe likes to associate with positive, motivated people.
AttractHer charm and beauty attract many admirers.
AllyThey decided to ally with the rival company to boost their resources.
AdoreI adore spending time with my family on weekends.

8. Verbs for Changing or Transforming

Verbs in this list focus on actions that involve changing or transforming something in a literal or metaphorical sense.

VerbExample Sentence
AlterShe decided to alter the design to fit the client’s requirements.
AdjustYou need to adjust the brightness on the screen.
AdaptThe company has to adapt to the changing market.
AffectThe new law will likely affect many small businesses.
AscertainBefore making a decision, we need to ascertain all the facts.
AccommodateThe new hotel design will accommodate more guests.
AssumeHe assumed that everyone knew the new schedule.

9. Verbs for Negative and Cautionary Actions

These verbs are often used to describe situations where things are being avoided, restrained, or restricted.

VerbExample Sentence
AvoidWe should avoid taking unnecessary risks.
AbandonThe hikers had to abandon their journey due to the storm.
AllegeHe alleged that the company was involved in fraud.
AngerHis rude comments angered everyone in the room.
AvertQuick action helped to avert the crisis.
AssaultHe was charged with assault after the altercation.
AggravateThe loud noise will only aggravate his headache.

Writing Assistance with Verbs Starting with A

Using verbs that start with A in your writing can make your work more dynamic and engaging. For example, instead of simply saying “He did something,” you could say “He acted swiftly” or “He achieved his goal.”

Tips for Using Verbs Effectively:

  • Vary Your Sentence Structure: Don’t just rely on basic sentences. Mix in complex ones, such as “She acknowledged her mistake and applied the necessary changes.”
  • Be Specific: Use verbs like “adapt” and “advocate” when you want to convey a stronger sense of purpose or action.
  • Use Active Voice: Verbs starting with A can help you form active sentences that are more direct and engaging. For example, “She acted quickly” is stronger than “The action was done by her quickly.”

Positive Verbs Starting with A

Many verbs that begin with A convey positive actions and emotions. For instance, words like appreciate, advance, and adore are uplifting verbs that are useful for expressing positivity and respect.

Examples of Positive Verbs:

  • Adore – She adores her pet.
  • Admire – I admire your dedication.
  • Appreciate – He appreciates the support you gave him.

Can There Be Two Main Verbs in a Sentence?

Yes, a sentence can have two main verbs, and understanding how they function together is important for mastering sentence structure. This can happen in different scenarios, such as when verbs are connected by conjunctions or used with auxiliary verbs. Let’s dive into how two main verbs work in a sentence and explore various examples.

1. Conjunctions Connecting Two Main Verbs

One of the most common ways two main verbs appear in a sentence is through the use of coordinating conjunctions. These conjunctions link words, phrases, or clauses that are of equal importance or structure. In this case, the conjunction connects two main verbs to describe two actions performed by the subject.

Examples:

  • She runs and jumps every morning.
    In this sentence, both runs and jumps are main verbs connected by the coordinating conjunction “and.” Both verbs describe actions that the subject (she) performs.
  • I like and dislike different types of music.
    Here, like and dislike are main verbs that express the subject’s actions or preferences. The conjunction “and” links them, showing that both actions happen in the same context.

When two main verbs are connected by a conjunction, each verb still maintains its full meaning and grammatical function. The sentence remains clear and straightforward, even with two verbs.

2. Using Auxiliary Verbs with Main Verbs

Another instance in which two main verbs appear in a sentence is when an auxiliary verb (also known as a helping verb) is paired with a main verb. In this case, the auxiliary verb helps express various tenses, moods, or voices, while the main verb carries the primary action or meaning.

Examples:

  • I am running every day to improve my health.
    In this sentence, am is the auxiliary verb, and running is the main verb. While am doesn’t represent the main action, it helps form the present continuous tense and shows the ongoing nature of the action.
  • She has eaten all the cookies.
    Here, has is the auxiliary verb, and eaten is the main verb. The auxiliary verb helps indicate that the action (eating) has already been completed.

When auxiliary verbs are used, they help clarify the tense, aspect, or modality of the main verb but don’t replace it. The main verb still carries the core meaning of the sentence.

3. Verb Phrases with Modal Verbs

Modal verbs such as can, should, might, and will can also combine with other verbs to create verb phrases. The modal verb is the auxiliary verb, and the second verb (in its base form) is the main verb that expresses the action.

Examples:

  • She will dance at the competition tomorrow.
    In this case, will is the modal auxiliary verb, and dance is the main verb expressing the subject’s action.
  • They can swim well.
    The modal verb can helps express ability, and swim is the main verb that describes the action the subject can perform.

In these cases, the combination of the modal verb and the main verb creates a specific meaning, such as expressing possibility, necessity, or future intention.

4. Compound Sentences and Main Verbs

Another way to have two main verbs in a sentence is through the use of a compound sentence. A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction (such as “and,” “but,” or “or”). Each independent clause contains its own subject and verb, so you can have two sets of main verbs.

Examples:

  • She studied for the exam, and he prepared the presentation.
    In this compound sentence, the first clause has the main verb studied, and the second clause has the main verb prepared. Both actions are linked with the conjunction “and.”
  • I will go to the store, but he will stay at home.
    Here, go and stay are the main verbs in their respective independent clauses, and they’re connected by “but,” showing a contrast in actions.

In compound sentences, the conjunction allows two independent clauses to function together while each maintaining its own subject-verb structure.

5. Subordinate Clauses and Two Main Verbs

Sometimes, two main verbs can appear in sentences with subordinate clauses, where one clause depends on the main clause to make sense. The subordinate clause can contain a second verb that adds additional information, showing an action connected to the main subject or verb.

Examples:

  • She reads a book while cooking dinner.
    In this example, reads is the main verb in the independent clause, and cooking is the main verb in the subordinate clause. The subordinate clause adds information to what the subject is doing.
  • He was writing an email when I called him.
    Here, the main verbs are was writing and called. The first part of the sentence describes an ongoing action (writing), while the second verb (called) shows an action that interrupts the first.

6. Verb Agreement with Two Main Verbs

When you have two main verbs in a sentence, it’s important to maintain subject-verb agreement. The subject of the sentence should agree with the main verb in terms of number (singular or plural), even when two verbs are involved.

Examples:

  • They eat lunch together and talk about their day.
    In this case, eat and talk agree with the plural subject they.
  • He plays the guitar and sings at the same time.
    Here, both verbs plays and sings are in agreement with the singular subject he.

How to Identify Verbs in a Sentence

To identify a verb, look for a word that shows action, state, or occurrence. The verb typically answers the question: What is the subject doing?

For example:

  • She acts brilliantly in the play.
    • Here, acts is the verb because it describes the subject’s action.

Verb Starting with A in Different Tenses

Verbs that start with A can be conjugated in different tenses to reflect the time of action. For example:

  • Present: I ask for help.
  • Past: He asked for assistance.
  • Future: They will ask for clarification.

Summary of the Top 10 Commonly Used Verbs That Start with A

To summarize, here are the top 10 commonly used verbs starting with A:

  1. Accept
  2. Achieve
  3. Act
  4. Adapt
  5. Ask
  6. Apply
  7. Advocate
  8. Admire
  9. Admit
  10. Agree

These verbs are useful in a wide range of contexts, from business to personal communication, and mastering them will improve your fluency.

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Conclusion

Verbs that start with A play a significant role in both writing and speech. They help convey actions, states, and occurrences, making them essential tools for effective communication. By understanding and incorporating verbs with the letter A into your vocabulary, you can enhance your language skills and express yourself more precisely.

Whether you’re looking to improve your writing, expand your vocabulary, or simply learn new verbs, mastering verbs that start with A is an excellent way to advance your understanding of the English language.

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