A I sat reading
We can use a participle after go, lie, run, sit, and stand.
● | Everyone stood watching the aircraft. |
● | The girl lay trapped in the wreckage. |
B I went swimming
We use go + active participle for leisure activities that we go out to do.
● | We went riding yesterday. |
● | Simon has gone fishing. |
C Conjunction + participle
We can use an active or passive participle after some conjunctions.
● | Wear gloves when using an electric saw. |
● | Once opened, the contents should be consumed within three days. |
The pattern is used mainly in writing and with although, if, once, unless, until, when, whenever, and while.
D Result
A clause with an active participle can express result.
● | The film star made a dramatic entrance, attracting everyone's attention. |
● | They pumped waste into the river, killing all the fish. (... and killed all the fish.) |
E Conditions
A participle clause can express a condition.
● | We'll eat outside, weather permitting. (if the weather permits it) |
● | Taken daily, vitamin pills can improve your health. (if they are taken daily) |
F With for details
This example has with and a subject of the participle clause.
● | There were scenes of celebration, with people dancing in the streets. |
The clause adds detail.
G Following, considering, etc.
Some participles are used as prepositions.
● | Following the reception, there will be a talk by the professor. (after the reception) |
● | Considering the weather, the day was a great success. (in view of the weather) |
● | I am writing regarding your complaint. (about your complaint) |
H Idioms
Some participle clauses are idioms.
● | Strictly speaking, that's not allowed. |
● | All being well, we'll be there by six. |