# is

CEFR A1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/is
Updated: 2026-07-09

## Definition

used to describe a person, thing, or situation. You use it to give information about someone or something, like their name, age, or job.

For teachers: the third-person singular present indicative form of 'be'. Functions as a linking verb to connect a subject with its complement or as an auxiliary verb to form continuous tenses and the passive voice.

## Examples

- She is a doctor at the local hospital.
- The weather is quite cold today, so you should wear a heavy coat when you go outside.
- While the theory is sound in a controlled laboratory setting, its practical application is often hindered by the unpredictable nature of real-world variables.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They is happy." but "They are happy." — 'Is' is only used for singular subjects; plural subjects require 'are'.

## Usage notes

- Third-person singular form; pairs with singular subjects like 'he', 'she', 'it', or singular noun phrases.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.