Considering using the word “becomes” in a sentence, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. In this article, we will explore the proper usage of “becomes” and provide examples to help you better understand its application.
So, how should you use “becomes” in a sentence? Simply put, “becomes” is a verb that indicates a change or transformation. It is commonly used to describe the process of something or someone turning into a different state or condition. Whether it’s a physical change, a change in character, or a change in status, “becomes” helps convey this transition effectively.
Now that we have a basic understanding of how “becomes” functions, let’s delve deeper into its usage and explore various examples to illustrate its application in different contexts.
Definition Of Becomes
In the realm of language, the term “becomes” serves as a versatile verb that encapsulates the concept of transformation, change, or transition. At its core, “becomes” refers to the process of undergoing a shift in state, character, or condition. This verb is commonly employed to express the idea of something or someone evolving into a different form or assuming a new role.
Historical Evolution
The historical evolution of the word “becomes” is not as prominent or distinct as some other linguistic phenomena. However, it is worth noting that the verb “become” has its roots in Old English, where it was initially derived from the combination of the words “be” and “cuman,” meaning “to come.”
Over time, “become” gradually emerged as a standalone verb, gaining prominence in Middle English and solidifying its place in the English language. While the historical evolution of “becomes” may not be as remarkable as other words, its significance lies in its ability to convey the essence of transformation and change in a concise and impactful manner.
Different Meanings In Different Contexts
Like many words in the English language, “becomes” possesses different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Let us explore a few of these contextual variations:
- 1. Becomes as a Copulative Verb: In its most basic form, “becomes” functions as a copulative verb, linking the subject of a sentence to an attribute or state that it assumes. For example, in the sentence “She becomes a leader,” the verb “becomes” signifies the transformation of the subject (she) into the role of a leader.
- 2. Becomes as a Synonym for “Suitable” or “Appropriate”: In certain contexts, “becomes” can be used to describe something that is fitting, suitable, or appropriate. For instance, one might say, “The elegant dress becomes her,” indicating that the dress complements or enhances the person’s appearance.
- 3. Becomes as a Transitional Verb: “Becomes” can also function as a transitional verb, denoting the process of changing from one state or condition to another. For example, “The caterpillar becomes a butterfly,” illustrates the metamorphosis from a larval stage to the magnificent winged creature.
These are just a few examples of how the word “becomes” adapts to different contexts, capturing the essence of transformation, suitability, and transition in the English language.
How To Properly Use Becomes In A Sentence
When it comes to using the word “becomes” in a sentence, there are certain grammatical rules that need to be followed in order to ensure clarity and accuracy. Understanding these rules will help you effectively convey your message and avoid any potential confusion. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that “becomes” can take on different parts of speech, such as a verb or a noun, depending on its usage in a sentence.
Grammatical Rules For Using “Becomes”
In order to use “becomes” properly in a sentence, it is essential to keep the following grammatical rules in mind:
- Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb “becomes” must agree with its subject in terms of number. This means that if the subject is singular, “becomes” should be used, whereas if the subject is plural, “become” should be used. For example:
| Subject | Verb | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Singular | becomes | The cat becomes playful in the evening. |
| Plural | become | The cats become playful in the evening. |
- Tense Agreement: “Becomes” should be used to indicate a present or future action, while “became” is used to indicate a past action. This ensures proper tense agreement within the sentence. Consider the following examples:
| Tense | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Present | She becomes more confident with each performance. |
| Past | He became a renowned scientist after years of research. |
Parts Of Speech For “Becomes”
While “becomes” is primarily used as a verb, it can also function as a noun in certain contexts. Let’s take a look at how “becomes” can be used as different parts of speech:
- Verb: As a verb, “becomes” indicates a change or transformation that occurs to a subject. It shows the process of something or someone transitioning into a different state or condition. For example:
“She becomes a better writer with each practice session.”
- Noun: Although less common, “becomes” can also function as a noun, particularly in formal or literary contexts. In this case, it refers to the process or result of becoming. Here’s an example:
“The becomes of a caterpillar into a butterfly is a remarkable metamorphosis.”
By understanding the grammatical rules and the various parts of speech that “becomes” can take on, you can confidently incorporate it into your sentences with precision and clarity.
Examples Of Using Becomes In A Sentence
When it comes to the versatile word “becomes,” its usage can be observed in a myriad of contexts. By employing a combination of simple and complex sentences, we can effectively showcase the various ways in which this word can be utilized. Let’s explore some examples that highlight the different nuances and meanings of “becomes.”
1. Transformative Context:
– The caterpillar becomes a butterfly after undergoing metamorphosis.
In this sentence, “becomes” is used to describe the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly. It signifies a profound change or evolution from one state to another.
2. Transitional Context:
– As the sun sets, the sky becomes a canvas of vibrant colors.
Here, “becomes” is employed to depict the transition of the sky from its original state to a stunning display of vibrant colors during sunset. It emphasizes the changing nature of the sky’s appearance.
3. Developmental Context:
– With consistent practice, a novice becomes a skilled pianist.
In this example, “becomes” is used to convey the progression or development of a novice pianist into a skilled one. It signifies the growth and improvement achieved through dedicated practice.
4. Role Or Identity Context:
– After years of hard work, she becomes the CEO of a successful company.
Here, “becomes” is utilized to indicate the attainment of a specific role or identity. It represents the culmination of efforts and the achievement of a desired position.
5. Change Of State Context:
– When exposed to heat, ice becomes water.
In this sentence, “becomes” is used to describe the change of state from solid (ice) to liquid (water) when subjected to heat. It signifies the alteration of physical properties due to external factors.
These examples illustrate the diverse ways in which “becomes” can be incorporated into sentences, each conveying a distinct meaning or context. Whether denoting transformation, transition, development, role, or change of state, this word adds depth and clarity to our language.
Edge Cases Or Things To Consider
When it comes to using the word “becomes” in a sentence, there are a few edge cases and considerations that one should keep in mind. By understanding these nuances, you can ensure that your usage of “becomes” is accurate and effective.
Common Mistakes People Make When Using Becomes
While “becomes” is a fairly straightforward word to use, there are a few common mistakes that people often make. By avoiding these errors, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.
- Subject-Verb Agreement: One common mistake is related to subject-verb agreement. It is essential to ensure that the subject and the verb are properly aligned in number. For example, instead of saying “The dog becomes hungry,” which is incorrect, it should be “The dog becomes hungry.”
- Improper Tense Usage: Another mistake to watch out for is using “becomes” in the wrong tense. While “becomes” is typically used in the present tense, it is important to match the verb tense with the context of the sentence. For instance, saying “He became a doctor yesterday” would be more appropriate than “He becomes a doctor yesterday.”
- Ambiguity: Using “becomes” without providing sufficient context can lead to ambiguity. It is crucial to clearly convey the cause-and-effect relationship or the transformation being described. For example, instead of saying “She becomes better,” it would be more precise to say “She becomes better at playing the piano after taking lessons.”
By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can avoid confusion and ensure that your use of “becomes” is accurate and grammatically sound.
Cultural Or Regional Differences
Language is influenced by culture and geography, and the use of “becomes” in sentences is no exception. While the word itself remains the same, there may be cultural or regional differences in how it is employed.
In some cultures, the use of “becomes” may be more prevalent to express changes or transformations. For example, in certain Eastern cultures, it is customary to emphasize personal growth and development, and the word “becomes” may be used more frequently to describe these processes.
On the other hand, regional variations can also impact the usage of “becomes.” Certain dialects or accents may alter the pronunciation or inflection of the word, adding a unique flavor to its usage. For instance, in some parts of the United States, “becomes” may be pronounced with a slight emphasis on the “s” sound, while in other regions, it may be pronounced more softly.
Understanding these cultural and regional differences can enrich your language skills and enable you to communicate effectively with a diverse audience. It is always beneficial to be aware of these variations and adapt your usage of “becomes” accordingly.
Synonyms Or Alternates To Use
When it comes to expressing the concept of “becomes” in a sentence, there are several synonyms or alternate words that can be utilized. Each of these alternatives carries its own subtle differences in meaning or usage, making them suitable for specific contexts. Let’s explore four such options:
1. Transforms
The term “transforms” serves as a potent synonym for “becomes,” emphasizing a significant change or conversion. While both words convey a sense of transition, “transforms” suggests a more dramatic or profound alteration. This word is particularly useful when describing a complete and noticeable shift in form, character, or nature.
Example: “The caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly.”
2. Evolves
Similar to “becomes,” the word “evolves” denotes a gradual process of development or change. However, “evolves” implies a progression over time and a series of incremental modifications. It is often employed when discussing the growth or advancement of an idea, concept, or living organism.
Example: “Technology evolves rapidly, shaping our daily lives.”
3. Turns Into
“Turns into” is a versatile phrase that can be used interchangeably with “becomes” in various contexts. It implies a shift or conversion from one state or form to another. This phrase is commonly employed when describing a transformation that is more visually apparent or tangible.
Example: “The caterpillar turns into a chrysalis before emerging as a butterfly.”
4. Metamorphoses
Derived from the Greek word “metamorphoō,” meaning “to transform,” “metamorphoses” is a more formal and poetic term for “becomes.” It conveys a sense of profound and often magical change, typically associated with biological or mythological transformations. This word is frequently used in literary or scientific contexts.
Example: “The tadpole metamorphoses into a frog, undergoing a remarkable physical transformation.”
While all of these synonyms effectively convey the notion of “becomes,” the choice among them depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis on the degree or nature of the transformation. By employing these alternates, writers can add variety and precision to their sentences.
Related Phrases Or Idioms
When it comes to using the word “becomes” in a sentence, there are several related phrases and idioms that can add depth and nuance to your writing. These expressions not only showcase your command of the English language but also help convey your thoughts effectively. Let’s explore some of these phrases and idioms:
1. Become Of
The phrase “become of” is often used to inquire about the fate or outcome of someone or something. It implies curiosity or concern regarding the current state or condition of a person or object. Here’s an example sentence:
“I wonder what will become of that abandoned house.”
2. Become Of Age
When someone “becomes of age,” it means they have reached the legal age of maturity or adulthood. This phrase is commonly used to signify an individual’s transition into adulthood. Consider this example sentence:
“When she becomes of age, she will inherit her family’s estate.”
3. Become Of Someone/something
This phrase is used to describe the transformation or change that occurs in someone or something over time. It suggests a shift in status, condition, or identity. Here’s an example sentence:
“Over the years, he became of great importance to the scientific community.”
4. Become Of Oneself
When someone “becomes of oneself,” it means they have developed their character or achieved personal growth. It implies a positive change or maturation in one’s behavior or attitude. Consider this example sentence:
“After years of self-reflection and hard work, she finally became of herself and found inner peace.”
5. Become Of Interest
When something “becomes of interest,” it means it captures someone’s attention or arouses curiosity. This phrase is often used to describe the shift in focus or attraction towards a particular subject or topic. Here’s an example sentence:
“As technology evolves, artificial intelligence becomes of increasing interest to researchers.”
These related phrases and idioms provide you with various ways to incorporate the word “becomes” into your sentences, allowing you to express ideas with precision and sophistication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the correct usage of the word “becomes” is of utmost importance in effective communication. By understanding its various nuances and employing it appropriately, individuals can elevate their writing and speech to a more sophisticated level. The word “becomes” serves as a powerful tool in expressing transformations, transitions, and changes in a sentence, allowing for a clearer and more concise conveyance of ideas.
As with any language skill, practice makes perfect. Encouraging readers to actively incorporate “becomes” into their own sentences will not only enhance their command of the English language but also enable them to express themselves more precisely and eloquently. By utilizing this versatile word in their daily conversations, writing, and even creative endeavors, individuals can gradually develop a strong sense of linguistic finesse.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.