STATIVE & DYNAMIC VERBS

A. STATIVE VERBS:

EXAMPLES:

Like, dislike, love,hate, want …

FUNCTION:

DESCRIBE STATES or CONDITIONS which continue over a period of time.

Note:

These verbs are not normally used in the progressive form.

Example :

I am liking reading. (Incorrect)

I like reading. (correct)

B. DYNAMIC VERBS: (ACTION VERBS)

EXAMPLES:

Break, watch, play, drive …

FUNCTION:

DESCRIBE things that happen within a limited time, things which have a definite beginning and end.

These verbs can be used in both simple and progressive forms.

Note: (very important)

Some stative verbs are occasionally used in the progressive form when they describe something with a definite beginning and end in order to to describe something that is temporary.  

Example :
They’re having a meeting now.

Warning:
The use of stative verbs as dynamic is growing. In advertising, for example, there is a lot of pressure to sound as dynamic as possible.

Example: there is a slogan used by a famous brand:  “ I am loving it”

Unfortunately, that’s bad English.