Process verb

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Process verbs form a meaning class of verbs . They are verbs that denote a dynamic, changing situation, but which is not an act of an animated causer. With regard to the dynamics of the situation, process verbs are therefore in contrast to verbs of state , with regard to the lack of control by a conscious causer ( agent ) they are in contrast to activity verbs . Task verbs can indicate a fixed end point of the task (telic verbs) or not (atelic verbs).

Examples
  • Atelic procedural verbs, without limitation of the situation: grow, sleep
  • Telic process verbs, with limitation of the situation: freeze to death, dissolve ; to bloom (beginning of blooming : inchoatives verb)

swell

  • Duden - The grammar. 8th edition. Dudenverlag, Mannheim 2009, p. 411.