This message was  originally submitted by [log in to unmask]  to the
ATEG in reply to a posting  by Ed Vavra  ([log in to unmask])
 
>         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?
>
 
> I guess I'm slow, but I don't understand the
> explanation.
 
I offered this example as an example that form is not a consistent
way to talk about function and that the traditional definition of a
verb leads to wrong results.
 
So, how do you have students identify the main verb in the three
sentences?
 
 
Bob Yates, Central Missouri State University