Representing being and having

ugs.gif (980 bytes) Using there be to represent existence and location page 2 of 8

Using there be to represent existence

The sentence pattern there + be + noun groupgloss.gif (923 bytes) is used to state that something exists.

The vast majority of these "existential" sentences have an indefinite subject, introduced by words such as a/an, some, any, no, a few, many, someone/somebody, something and nothing:

Most reputable shops are covered by the Footwear Code of Practice. If they are, you can ask for the shoes to be sent to the Footwear Testing Centre for an independent opinion. There is a charge. You pay one third and the shop pays the rest - including postage. (Bank of English)

Is there any other business? (Bank of English)

The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." (The Bible)

04conten.gif (549 bytes) Introduction
square.gif (58 bytes) Using there be to represent existence
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there be to represent location
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there be with relative clauses
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there be with infinitive clauses
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there be with that-clauses
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there exist
04conten.gif (549 bytes) Using there appear/seem