"Drink" is an irregular verb that describes consuming liquids, with distinct forms for its past and participle that shift from the present. This article examines its past tense, past participle, and meanings, and provides examples for better understanding.
What Is the Past Tense of "Drink"?
The simple past tense of "drink" is "drank," not "drinked." It’s the same for all subjects (e.g., "I drank," "they drank").
Drank in Sentence Examples
- She drank a glass of water after the run.
- He drank coffee to stay awake.
- They drank juice at the picnic.
"Drank" shows past consumption.
"Drink" as a Past Participle
The past participle of "drink" is "drunk." It’s used with auxiliaries in perfect tenses or passive voice, indicating completed drinking.
Drunk in Sentence Examples
- I have drunk tea all morning.
- By midnight, he had drunk too much wine.
- The milk was drunk straight from the carton.
"Drunk" highlights finished liquid intake.
The Different Meanings of "Drink"
"Drink" focuses on liquids but extends figuratively. Here are its key uses.
a. To Consume Liquids
- Past tense: He drank the soup slowly.
- Past participle: She has drunk three cups today.
b. To Get Drunk (Informal)
- Past tense: They drank heavily at the party.
- Past participle: He has drunk himself silly before.
c. To Absorb (Figurative)
- Past tense: She drank in the beauty of the sunset.
- Past participle: The crowd has drunk in every word.
"Drink" flows between literal and poetic.
Examples of "Drink" in Sentences
Using "Drank" (Past Tense)
- He drank from the stream cautiously.
- She drank her tea with lemon.
- They drank to celebrate the win.
Using "Drunk" (Past Participle)
- I’ve drunk enough water for the day.
- The punch had been drunk by noon.
- He’s been drunk twice this month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is "drinked" ever correct?
No, "drinked" is wrong. Use "drank" (past) and "drunk" (participle).
"Drank" vs. "drunk"?
"Drank" is simple past (e.g., "I drank"); "drunk" needs an auxiliary (e.g., "I have drunk"). It’s an Old English pattern.
Can "drunk" be an adjective?
Yes, meaning intoxicated (e.g., "He’s drunk”), separate from its participle use.
What’s a drinking idiom?
"Drink like a fish" means overindulge (e.g., "He drank like a fish”).
Conclusion
The past tense "drank" and past participle "drunk" make "drink" a versatile verb for sipping and soaking in. Mastering its forms lets you express consumption with clarity. Drink up these tips, and refine your English!