In the English language, the word “are” has a double purpose. It can be used as a noun or a verb depending on the context.

1. Noun

This word is categorized under nouns, if it is used to refer to a unit of measurement that is equivalent to a hundred square meters. In the sample sentence below:

How many ares in one acre?

The word “are” is used as a noun to refer to that particular unit of measure.

Definition:

a. a metric unit of measure, equal to 100 square meters (about 119.6 square yards)

• Example:
• Each paddock is one are in size.

 

2. Verb

In most cases, the word “are” is classified as a verb, more specifically as a linking verb. When used as a linking verb, it connects the subject with the other parts of the sentence that provides additional information about it. For example, in the sentence below:

The boys are playing in the playground.

The word “are” links the subject “boys” with the predicate “playing in the playground.”

Definition:

a. present 2D singular or present plural of be

• Example:
• There are no easy solutions.