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　　Relational processes are linguistic processes that represent a relation being set up between two separate entities. In relational processes, something is said to be (or to have) something else or to be of some quality. They fall into two distinct modes: attributive, as shown by (52), and identifying, as exemplified by (53).

　　(52) Tom is smart.
　　(53) Tom is the leader.

Relational processes are often expressed by the verb be or have. In representing possessive relations, the verb have is attributive, while the verb be is identifying. Compare:

　　(54) Tom has a motorcycle.
　　(55) The motorcycle is Tom's.

(55) is obviously identifying in meaning and (54) is not. Be is also used in another type of relational process called circumstantial, as shown by (56) and (57):

(56) The conference is on Monday.
(57) Today is the 28th.

(56) is attributive and (57) is identifying.