Verbs Starting with ‘P’

Verbs are the engines of language, propelling narratives forward and clarifying the actions of subjects. Among the plethora of verbs, those beginning with the letter “P” are particularly potent, encompassing a wide range of actions from the physical to the psychological. This article delves into some of the most common and versatile verbs starting with “P,” exploring their meanings and uses in everyday communication.

Table of Contents

Paint

To “paint” is to apply color to a surface using a brush, but it also metaphorically describes the ability to describe scenes vividly in words.

Example: The artist painted the walls bright blue. / She painted a vivid picture of her journey through the mountains.

Pass

“Pass” can refer to moving past something or someone, but also to succeeding in a test or handing something to another person.

Example: He passed the other runners in the last lap. / She passed her driving test with flying colors.

Perform

To “perform” means to carry out a task or to entertain an audience through acting, singing, or dancing.

Example: The orchestra will perform Beethoven’s 5th Symphony tonight.

Permit

“Permit” involves giving authorization or consent for something.

Example: The city council permitted the new building development.

Persuade

To “persuade” is to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument.

Example: He persuaded his friend to join him at the gym.

Pick

“Pick” can mean to select from a variety of options, or it can refer to the physical act of plucking or pulling.

Example: She picked the red dress for the party. / He picked apples from the tree.

Place

To “place” means to put something in a particular position.

Example: Please place the books on the shelf.

Plan

“Plan” involves devising a detailed proposal for achieving an outcome.

Example: They planned their trip to Europe meticulously.

Play

To “play” means to engage in an activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.

Example: The children play outside after school.

Please

“Please” is often used as a polite addition to requests or commands but also means to give pleasure or satisfaction.

Example: Please pass the salt. / The comedy show pleased the audience greatly.

Point

To “point” can mean to direct someone’s attention to the direction of something by extending a finger or other indicator.

Example: She pointed to the sign that read ‘Exit’.

Possess

“Possess” means to have as belonging to one; own.

Example: He possesses great knowledge about medieval history.

Post

“Post” can mean to publish something online, or to display a notice in a public place.

Example: She posted the event details on social media.

Pour

To “pour” is to flow or cause to flow in a steady stream.

Example: He poured milk into his coffee.

Practice

“Practice” means to perform an activity or exercise regularly in order to improve or maintain one’s proficiency.

Example: She practices piano every day for an hour.

Prefer

To “prefer” is to like one thing or choice better than another or others; tend to choose.

Example: I prefer tea over coffee.

Prepare

“Prepare” involves making ready or being equipped in advance for a particular purpose, event, or reason.

Example: They prepared the room for the meeting.

Present

To “present” can mean to give something to someone formally or officially, to introduce a person or point in a conversation, or to show or offer for observation or consideration.

Example: He presented the award to the winner. / The lawyer presented her case to the jury.

Preserve

“Preserve” means to maintain (something) in its original or existing state.

Example: Efforts to preserve local wildlife are increasing.

Press

To “press” is to apply pressure or push against something with force.

Example: She pressed the button to start the machine.

Prevent

“Prevent” means to stop something from happening or arising.

Example: Firefighters worked hard to prevent the fire from spreading.

Print

“Print” can refer to the reproduction of text and images, typically with ink on paper, but it also applies to making a mark or indentation by applying pressure.

Example: The office will print fifty copies of the report. / His hand accidentally printed a smudge on the wall.

Proceed

To “proceed” means to begin or continue a course of action.

Example: After the interruption, they proceeded with the meeting.

Final Thoughts

The verbs starting with “P” are pivotal in the English language, providing a multitude of ways to describe actions, processes, and intentions. These verbs enrich our conversations, enhance our writings, and help us to communicate more effectively and precisely. From physical actions like “paint” and “pick” to more abstract concepts like “persuade” and “plan,” these verbs cover a broad spectrum of activities and behaviors that are integral to daily life.