In the previous section, you learned the stem verbs. There is another section of verbs that is important to understand. Static verbs are used to describe a state of being. Below are the static verbs.

Gin to have

Bezwin to need

Kapab can/to be able

Olé to want

You have already seen Gin, but there are two verbs that can serve as auxiliary verbs. Auxiliary verbs are also known as helping verbs. They are used with a main verb to express tense, mood, and voice. These two verbs are Bezwin and Olé. The auxiliary verbs are placed before the main verb and after the subject. When Gin is paired with Pou it can also act as an auxiliary expression. It is important to note, however, that some speakers use Gin as an auxiliary verb by itself.

M’olé parlé I want to speak

Li bezwin manjé He needs to eat

Li gin pou wa he has to see

Nou gin bwa We have to drink

Click on the verbs in the table to hear the pronunciations.

  
    Creole
    English
  
    Gin
    to have
  
    Bezwin
    to need
  
    Kapab
    can / to be able
  
    Olé
    to want
  
    Gin pou
    have to

Static Verbs

C.R.E.O.L.E., Inc.