What is a helping verb?

• A. A noun that replaces a verb.
• B. A word that helps the main verb tell about an action or make a statement.
• C. A verb that describes the action itself.
• D. A word that always ends with -ing.

Answer: (B)

A helping verb, also called an auxiliary verb, is a word that works with the main verb to add information about the action or state—like when it happens, its completeness, possibility, or obligation. For example, in “She is reading,” the helping verb is is, which shows the action is happening now. In “They have finished,” have helps show that the action is completed. In “You should study,” should expresses advice, and in “Can you swim?” can shows ability or possibility.

This understanding fits the correct choice because it describes a helping verb as a word that helps the main verb tell about an action or make a statement. The other ideas don’t fit because a noun replacing a verb isn’t how verbs work, a verb that describes the action itself is the main verb, and a word ending in -ing is usually a participle or gerund, not a helping verb.