This message was originally posted by Ed Vavra  ([log in to unmask]  to the
ATEG  list)
 
Bob Yates wrote:
Let me give an example of why the form/function
distinction is important.
 
One defines a verb as a word that shows action.  And,
the "main verb" of a sentence is what the "subject" is
doing or has done?
 
        So what is the "main verb" of the following
sentences?
 
        Bob is playing on the computer.
        Bob enjoys playing on the computer.
        Bob is happy playing on the computer.
 
Playing is the most "action" word in all three, right?
 
The only way to figure out what is the "main verb" is to
talk about form and function.
 
 
----------------------
I guess I'm slow, but I don't understand the
explanation. In all three sentences, the form of
"playing" is identical; only the function differs. Why
then, must one discuss the form?