Lesson 1: Past Participle Clauses

We can make a clause that starts with a participle verb. This often makes the start of the sentence a little shorter, which can seem more elegant. It can also be a good way to make our writing more varied. We saw a brief introduction to participle clauses at B2 level. At C1 level, we go into more detail. 

First, we can start sentences with a past participle verb clause. The negative form is 'not + past participle'. The subject of both parts of the sentence must be the same.

We can use these types of clauses to mean something like 'if + passive verb clause'. 

·       Seen from his perspective, the problem is more understandable. (This means something like 'if it is seen from his perspective, the problem is more understandable'.)

·       Given enough time, he will surprise you. (This means something like 'if he is given enough time, he will surprise you'.)

We can also use these past participle clauses to add a reason for something.

·       Annoyed by the argument, she left the party. (This means something like 'because she was annoyed by the argument, she left the party'.)

·       Taught by a master, he became a champion. (This means something like 'because he was taught by a master, he became a champion'.)

We can use these clauses to add information or a description about a subject or situation too. 

·       Shocked by what he saw, the teacher stared at the class. (This means something like 'the teacher was shocked by what he saw, and he stared at the class'.)

·       Filled with joy, the couple got married. (This means something like 'the couple were filled with joy and they got married'.)