Definition / Explanation
In a basic English statement, the usual order is Subject -> Verb -> Object. The subject tells us who or what the sentence is about, and the verb tells us what happens. If the verb needs an object, the object usually comes after the verb. This word order is very common in simple affirmative sentences, so it is a good pattern to learn early.
Key Rules
- Use Subject + Verb for very short complete sentences: I work.
- Add an object after the verb when the verb needs one: She likes tea.
- The subject usually comes first in affirmative sentences.
- Do not change the order in a simple statement unless there is a special reason.
- Time and place words often come after the main part of the sentence: I work in a shop.
Examples
- I read books.
- She drinks coffee in the morning.
- We play football on Sunday.
- They live in a small flat.
- My brother studies English at school.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Likes she tea. -> ✅ She likes tea.
- ❌ I in a bank work. -> ✅ I work in a bank.
- ❌ Very tired I am. -> ✅ I am very tired.
Tips
- If you are not sure, start with who + does what + what/where/when.
- English word order is often more fixed than in many other languages.