Exploring 'Tags' in English Grammar
"Grammar, which knows how to rule even kings, and with a brazen rod, has deigned to enter into this tag, and to teach you to obey it."
Tags are a captivating linguistic feature, acting as a concise clause without a lexical verb, yet intrinsically linked to the main verb of a sentence. They add nuance, emphasis, and interaction to our everyday speech and writing.
Anatomy of a Tag
Tags are typically composed of an auxiliary verb (such as be, do, or have), the lexical verb be itself, or a modal verb. They are invariably followed by a subject, most commonly a pronoun.
Their word order can be either declarative or interrogative, and they can exhibit either affirmative or negative polarity, adding to their versatility.
The Four Main Types of Tags
Delve into the distinct categories of tags, each serving a unique communicative purpose.
Question Tags
These tags are used to seek confirmation or to invite agreement.
- She's a diligent student, isn't she?
- I haven't shown you this report, have I?
- You've encountered that challenge before, have you?
Tip: Pay attention to the polarity switch—if the main clause is positive, the tag is usually negative, and vice versa.
Directive Tags
Often employed with imperatives, these tags soften a command or request.
- Close the window, will you.
- Don't stay out too late this evening, will you.
Note: These are less about asking a question and more about adding a polite insistence.
Statement Tags (Copy Tags)
These tags reiterate or confirm a statement, often for emphasis or to show agreement.
- I'm quite exhausted, I am.
- She was incredibly helpful, Mrs. Davies was.
- He's not very athletic, Mark isn't.
Insight: The subject in the tag often clarifies or reinforces the subject of the main clause.
Exclamation Tags
Used to express surprise, strong feeling, or to make an emphatic statement.
- How extraordinary, isn't it!
- What a splendid performance that was, wasn't it!
Observation: These tags often follow exclamatory sentences, enhancing their emotional impact.
"Grammar, like a good friend, helps us to express ourselves clearly and precisely, ensuring our tags communicate exactly what we intend."
To test your understanding of Tags in English Grammar, click here to take the quiz!
