Verbs That Start With An O

Verbs That Start with O: A Comprehensive Guide

This article provides a comprehensive list of verbs that start with the letter 'O', categorized for clarity and enhanced understanding. We'll explore various verb types, including common verbs, less frequent ones, and even some archaic or obsolete terms for a truly in-depth look. This list will be useful for writers looking to expand their vocabulary, students studying English grammar, or anyone curious about the nuances of the English language. We'll also touch upon the different tenses and forms these verbs can take.

Common Verbs Starting with 'O'

This section focuses on verbs you'll frequently encounter in everyday conversation and writing.

• Obtain: To get or acquire something. Example: I obtained the necessary documents.
• Obey: To comply with a rule, order, or request. Example: We must obey the law.
• Offer: To present something for acceptance or consideration. Example: She offered me a cup of tea.
• Offset: To compensate for something. Example: The tax break offset the increased cost.
• Operate: To control the functioning of a machine or system. Example: He operates heavy machinery.
• Oppose: To disagree with or fight against something. Example: Many people oppose the new policy.
• Organize: To arrange or put in order. Example: We need to organize the files.
• Overcome: To succeed in dealing with or controlling (a problem or difficulty). Example: She overcame her fear of public speaking.
• Overlook: To fail to notice something. Example: I overlooked a crucial detail in the report.
• Owe: To have a duty or obligation to pay or repay something. Example: I owe you money.

Less Common Verbs Starting with 'O'

This section delves into verbs that are used less frequently but still hold their place in the English lexicon.

• Obtrude: To thrust oneself or something forward in an unwelcome or intrusive way. Example: He obtruded his opinions into the conversation.
• Obviate: To remove a need or difficulty. Example: The new system obviates the need for extra staff.
• Occult: To hide or conceal. Example: The magician occulted the rabbit. (Note: This verb is also used as an adjective meaning "mysterious" or "supernatural.")
• Officiate: To perform duties or ceremonies, especially religious ones. Example: The priest officiated at the wedding.
• Outdo: To surpass or excel someone. Example: He tried to outdo his brother in everything.
• Outgrow: To grow too large for something. Example: He outgrew his clothes.
• Outlive: To live longer than someone or something. Example: She outlived her husband by many years.
• Outmaneuver: To cleverly outwit or defeat someone. Example: The chess player outmaneuvered his opponent.

Archaic or Obsolete Verbs Starting with 'O'

This section highlights verbs that are rarely used in modern English but offer a glimpse into the richness of the language's history.

• Oust: While not entirely obsolete, its usage is less frequent than "remove" or "dismiss." Example: He was ousted from his position.
• Overreach: Though still used, its older meaning focused on exceeding one's authority.

Verb Forms and Tenses

Remember that all these verbs can be conjugated into various tenses (past, present, future) and forms (present participle, past participle, gerund). Understanding these variations is crucial for proper grammar and sentence construction. For example, the verb "obtain" can be:

• Present: I obtain.
• Past: I obtained.
• Future: I will obtain.
• Present Participle: Obtaining.
• Past Participle: Obtained.

This applies to all verbs listed above. Exploring these different forms will significantly enhance your writing skills.

This comprehensive guide should equip you with a robust understanding of verbs beginning with the letter 'O'. Remember to consult a dictionary or thesaurus for a deeper understanding of each verb's nuances and usage.