English Reference

Word

am

Definition

v. the form of the verb 'be' that you use with 'I'.

v. the first-person singular present indicative of the copula 'be'.

Examples

“I am a student at the local college.”

“I am very happy to meet you after all this time.”

“I am responsible for the final oversight of the project, ensuring that every department meets its specific deadlines and quality standards.”

Examples

simple

“I am a student at the local college.”

contextual

“I am very happy to meet you after all this time.”

complex

“I am responsible for the final oversight of the project, ensuring that every department meets its specific deadlines and quality standards.”

Usage

Always follows the pronoun 'I' in the present tense.

Pitfall

I am go to the store.

I am going to the store.

When using 'am' as a helping verb for an action, the main verb must end in '-ing'.

Related words

areiswaswere

Grammar

Present continuousPresent simple of 'to be'

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
Frequency
Very common
Level
A1 · Beginner
Updated

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English Reference