Skip to content
    Italian GCSE

    Auxiliary verbs

    What Auxiliary verbs means in Italian GCSE, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Auxiliary verbs

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Auxiliary verbs in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    In this construction stare acts as an auxiliary verb, translating to the English verb 'to be', so 'sto leggendo' is 'I am reading', not 'I stay reading'.
    AQA · Verbs
    The perfect infinitive is formed using the infinitive of the auxiliary verb ('avere' or 'essere') followed by the past participle of the main verb.
    AQA · Verbs
    The perfect tense is formed using a present tense auxiliary verb, either 'avere' or 'essere'.
    AQA · Verbs

    Topics that use Auxiliary verbs

    Related terms

    Using Auxiliary verbs in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Italian questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Italian GCSE terms