Verbs That Start With B

A Comprehensive Guide to Verbs Starting with "B"

This article explores the fascinating world of verbs that begin with the letter "B," delving into their meanings, usage, and nuances. We'll examine common verbs, less frequent ones, and even some archaic or rarely used terms, providing examples to illustrate their diverse applications in both spoken and written English. Understanding the subtle differences between seemingly similar verbs is crucial for clear and effective communication. This resource aims to be a complete guide, enriching your vocabulary and improving your command of the English language.

Introduction: The Ubiquitous "B" Verbs

The letter "B" initiates a surprisingly diverse range of verbs in the English language. From everyday actions to more specialized terms, these verbs paint a vivid picture of human activity and experience. This comprehensive guide will not only list these verbs but also provide detailed explanations, examples, and contextual usage, helping you to confidently incorporate them into your own writing and speech. We will also touch upon the grammatical aspects of these verbs, including their tenses, voice (active and passive), and common collocations.

Section 1: Common Verbs Starting with "B"

Let's begin by exploring some of the most frequently encountered verbs starting with "B":

• Bake: To cook (food) by dry heat without direct exposure to a flame, typically in an oven. Example: I baked a delicious apple pie for dessert.

• Balance: To keep or place something in a steady position so it does not fall. Also, to make the two sides of an account equal. Example: He balanced precariously on the edge of the cliff. The accountant balanced the books at the end of the fiscal year.

• Ban: To officially forbid something. Example: The government banned the sale of certain chemicals.

• Bang: To hit something hard, often making a loud noise. Example: He banged his fist on the table in frustration.

• Bare: To uncover or reveal something. Example: She bared her teeth in a threatening grimace. Also can mean to make something empty or without covering. Example: He bared his chest to the cold wind.

• Bargain: To negotiate the price of something. Example: I bargained with the vendor to get a lower price.

• Bark: To make a sharp, loud cry, like a dog. Example: The dog barked fiercely at the stranger.

• Bathe: To wash oneself or something else in water. Example: I bathed the baby gently.

• Battle: To fight or struggle against something. Example: The soldiers battled bravely against the enemy.

• Be: The most common verb in the English language, serving as a linking verb (linking a subject to a predicate adjective or noun) and an auxiliary verb in various tenses. Example: I am happy. She is a doctor. He was tired.

• Bear: To carry or support something heavy. Also, to endure something difficult. Example: He bore the heavy load on his shoulders. She bore the pain bravely. Can also mean to give birth to. Example: She bore a son.

• Beat: To strike repeatedly. Also, to defeat someone. Example: He beat the drum rhythmically. Our team beat their opponents decisively.

• Become: To develop into something different. Example: He became a successful businessman.

• Beg: To ask earnestly or humbly for something. Example: She begged for mercy.

• Begin: To start something. Example: The meeting will begin at 2 pm.

• Behave: To act in a particular way. Example: The children behaved well at the party.

• Believe: To accept something as true. Example: I believe in the power of education.

• Belong: To be owned by or associated with someone or something. Example: This book belongs to me.

• Bend: To curve or make something curve. Example: He bent the wire into a circle.

• Benefit: To gain advantage from something. Example: She benefited greatly from the experience.

Section 2: Less Common but Useful Verbs Starting with "B"

Beyond the everyday verbs, English boasts a wealth of less frequently used, yet equally important verbs beginning with "B":

• Beseech: To ask someone urgently and pleadingly to do something. Example: He beseeched her to reconsider her decision. (More formal and archaic than "beg")

• Besiege: To surround a place with military forces in order to capture it. Example: The city was besieged for months.

• Betray: To be disloyal to someone or something. Example: He betrayed his country by sharing secrets with the enemy.

• Bewilder: To confuse someone completely. Example: The complex instructions bewildered him.

• Bicker: To argue about petty things. Example: The children were bickering over a toy.

• Bid: To offer a price for something, especially at an auction. Example: He bid $1000 for the painting. Also, to command or instruct. Example: The general bid his troops advance.

• Bind: To tie something firmly. Example: She bound the package with rope. Also, to unite or combine. Example: The treaty bound the two nations together.

• Bite: To cut or seize something with one's teeth. Example: The dog bit the postman.

• Blab: To talk indiscreetly; reveal secrets. Example: Don't blab about our plans.

• Blackmail: To extort money or other benefits from someone by threatening to reveal compromising information. Example: He tried to blackmail the politician.

• Blame: To hold someone responsible for something bad. Example: Don't blame me for your mistakes.

• Blanch: To make something white or pale. Example: The sun blanched the curtains. Also, to turn pale from shock or fear. Example: She blanched at the sight of blood.

• Blast: To explode something. Example: They blasted the mountain to build a road. Also, a harsh, critical comment. Example: The critic blasted the new film.

• Blaze: To burn brightly. Example: The fire blazed throughout the night.

• Bleed: To lose blood. Example: The wound was bleeding profusely.

• Blemish: To spoil the appearance of something. Example: The scratch blemished the surface of the car.

• Bless: To ask for God's favour for someone or something. Example: The priest blessed the newborn baby.

Section 3: Archaic and Less Frequently Used Verbs Starting with "B"

While many "B" verbs are commonly used, some have fallen out of frequent usage but still hold a place in the history of the English language:

• Beshrew: To curse or scold. Example: (Archaic) I beshrew you for your deceit!

• Betake: To repair or go to a place. Example: (Archaic) He betook himself to the hills.

• Bestir: To stir oneself; to become active. Example: (Archaic) Bestir yourselves and get to work!

• Boggle: To overwhelm the mind. Example: The sheer size of the task boggled his mind. (While not archaic, it's not as frequently used as other verbs with similar meanings.)

• Bruit: To spread a rumour or report. Example: (Archaic) The news was bruited about the town.

Section 4: Grammatical Considerations of "B" Verbs

Understanding the grammar surrounding these verbs is essential for proper usage. Many of the verbs listed above can be used in various tenses (past, present, future, perfect, etc.), and some can be used in both active and passive voice.

• Tense: Consider the tense of the verb in relation to the context of the sentence. For example, "He baked a cake" (past tense) versus "He is baking a cake" (present continuous tense).

• Voice: Active voice ("He baked the cake") emphasizes the subject performing the action, while passive voice ("The cake was baked by him") emphasizes the action itself.

• Irregular Verbs: Some "B" verbs, such as "be," "bear," and "become," are irregular verbs, meaning their past tense and past participle forms don't follow standard rules.

Section 5: Common Collocations with "B" Verbs

Understanding common collocations (words frequently used together) can greatly enhance your writing. Some examples include:

• Bake a cake/bread/pie: Common collocations for the verb "bake."

• Balance a budget/checkbook/scale: Common collocations for the verb "balance."

• Ban smoking/alcohol/weapons: Common collocations for the verb "ban."

• Bear a burden/child/witness: Common collocations for the verb "bear."

• Beat the clock/drums/competition: Common collocations for the verb "beat."

• Beg for forgiveness/mercy/help: Common collocations for the verb "beg."

Section 6: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the difference between "beg" and "beseech"? A: "Beg" is a common verb used in everyday conversation. "Beseech" is a more formal and archaic term, implying a more urgent and pleading request.

• Q: What is the difference between "balance" and "equalize"? A: While both relate to making things even, "balance" often refers to a physical or financial equilibrium, whereas "equalize" might refer to making things equal in any context.

• Q: How are "bare" and "bear" different? A: These are homophones—words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings. "Bare" means uncovered or naked, while "bear" means to carry, endure, or give birth to.

• Q: Is "boggle" still a commonly used word? A: While not as common as other verbs, "boggle" remains in use to describe being overwhelmed or astonished.

• Q: Are there any other verbs starting with "B" that aren't mentioned here? A: Yes, there are many more verbs starting with "B," some very rare or technical. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of common, less common, and some archaic examples.

Conclusion: Expanding Your Vocabulary with "B" Verbs

This comprehensive guide has explored a wide range of verbs beginning with the letter "B," highlighting their meanings, usage, and nuances. By understanding the subtle differences between these verbs, you can significantly enhance your vocabulary and communication skills. Remember to consider the context, tense, and voice when using these verbs to ensure clarity and accuracy. This in-depth exploration hopefully not only answered your initial question but also provided a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their understanding of the English language. Continue exploring the richness and complexity of the English language, and your vocabulary will continue to grow and flourish.