SpacemanAfrica

The word "becomes" concerns me because people use it in a way similar to the forbidden verb.

"He was funny."
"He became funny."

Both of these leave the same foul taste in my mouth. While the word "remains" also feels like a bit of a cop-out, it gives more information by implying a consistency. Does anyone else share this concern?

Inch

I would prefer to use became/become (And any other word) in its original context and find other verbs more suited to the job or replace the whole sentence.

"He was funny" -> "He acted funny" or "He made me laugh"

It provides more information too. It tells you a little about why he "was" funny. "Became" doesn't tell you much more than "was". So, yes, I agree with you.

Square

Good point. The word "become" seems to mean virtually the same as "come to be", anyway.

Inkstersco

Not to mention "He has become funny".

"Become" means "make it be".

Another example implied "be" -- of equally bad alternatives to "be".

~Iain

Karen

Maybe these examples will take that foul taste out of your mouth.

I found that his sarcastic sense of humor made me laugh.

His odd, funny behavior made me feel uncomfortable.