Simple sentence with compound verb and subject

A compound verb is a verb that is made up of multiple words. The compound verb can take on such forms as:

• A prepositional verb
• A phrasal verb
• A verb with auxiliaries
• A compound single-word verb

Each of these operate a little differently and the best way to understand them is to study a variety of compound verb examples.

Verbs can take on a slightly or even a very different meaning when a preposition is added to the end of them.

• Believe in
• Ask for
• Rely upon

A phrasal verb is formed when you combine a verb with an adverb or a preposition.

The meaning of the resulting compound verb isn't always obvious by looking at the two words in isolation. Also, the adverb or preposition can be moved after the object and still make perfect sense.

• Tear up
• Take away
• Take down
• work on

Verbs can also be preceded by an auxiliary verb to form a compound verb.

Variations of "to be" are the most common, but other auxiliaries are oftentimes used too.

• Was swimming
• Will be considering
• Will meet
• Are running