Participle clauses

Participle clauses

Participle clause definition

We can use participle clauses after a noun in the same way as relative clauses. This gives more information about the noun.

1. using a present participle (verb + ing)

The man driving the car is a friend of mine.

(= The man who is driving the car is a friend of mine).

The present participle can replace any active tense, not just the present continuous tense:

Lorries coming over the bridge have to be careful of the wind.

(= Lorries that come over the bridge have to be careful of the wind).

Who was the girl wearing the red dress?

(= Who was the girl who was wearing the red dress?).

Students handing in their essays late will lose ten marks.

(= Students who hand in their essays late will lose ten marks).

2. using a past participle 

Past Participle = regular verb + ED or 3rd form of an irregular verb

We read the email sent by the manager. (= We read the email that had been sent by the manager).

This vase, made in China in the 14th century, is very valuable. (= This vase, which was made in China in the 14th century, is very valuable).

She only eats cakes made by her mother. (= She only eats cakes that are made by her mother).

Present Participle vs. Past Participle

A present participle (verb + ing) can be used in the same way as an active relative clause.

A past participle can be used in the same way as a simple passive relative clause.

ACTIVE VOICE = I made pancakes.

PASSIVE VOICE = Pancakes were made.