Linking Verbs: Can Pies Smell?

It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between action 
and linking verbs within sentences.  Since some verbs can 
function as both, there is a test to help make the 
distinction. Replace the verb with is or are, and if the 
sentence makes sense, the verb is linking.

• The pie smells sweet.
• He smells the pie.

In both sentences, replace the verb smells with the
linking verb is. Only the first example makes sense,
therefore, it contains the linking verb.

Besides, can pies really smell something?

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