A participle is a word derived from a verb
that can be used as an adjective or to form certain verb tenses. There are two
main types of participles:
Past participles (typically ending
in “-ed,” “-en,” “-n,” “-ne,” or “-t”) are used for perfect tenses and passive
voice constructions.
Present participles (always ending in
“-ing”) are used for continuous tenses
Examples: Past participles and present participles in
a sentence
Surprised by the sound of
sirens, I looked out the window.
Andy cleaned up
the broken glass.
I saw Kevin running
down the street.
Everyone stared at
the laughing man.
The past participles of regular verbs
are usually formed by adding the suffix “-ed” (e.g., “walk” becomes “walked”).
This is identical to the past simple form of these verbs.
The past participles of irregular verbs don’t
follow this pattern. Instead, they often end in “-en,” “-n,” “-ne,” or “-t”
(e.g., “kneel” becomes “knelt”). The past participle of an irregular verb is
sometimes not the same as the past simple (e.g. “sung” vs. “sang”).
Past participles can be used as adjectives,
in participial phrases, and to form perfect verb tenses. They can also be used
to form passive sentences (i.e., sentences in which the subject is acted upon).
Cassie was exhausted
after her workout.
Annoyed by the rude
cashier, Dave complained to the manager.
Val has taken
my advice.
A speech was given
by Tanya.
Present participles are typically formed by
adding “ing” to the end of a verb (e.g., “jump” becomes “jumping”).
Present participles can be used as
adjectives, as part of participial phrases, and to form continuous verb tenses.
Hannah didn’t enjoy the boring film.
Addressing the students,
the principal spoke about the value of extracurricular activities.
Deirdre is reading a book about botany.
