present participle
1 of 1noun/ˈprɛzənt ˈpɑrtɪsɪpəl/
Forms:present participles
1
(grammar) a verb form that typically ends in -ing and is used to indicate ongoing actions, continuous states, or simultaneous actions in relation to the main verb of a sentence
A present participle is a verb form that typically ends in "-ing," such as "running," "eating," or "swimming." It is used in various ways, including forming continuous tenses, acting as an adjective, or serving as a noun in gerund form. For example, in the sentence "She is running," the phrase "is running" uses the present participle "running" to indicate an ongoing action. Present participles are important for expressing actions that are currently happening, adding detail to sentences, and creating more complex verb structures to convey time and continuity.
- The present participle of "run" is "running."
- When forming the progressive aspect, the present participle shows continuous action.
- A present participle can also be used to form continuous tenses.
- The word "running" in "She was running fast" is a present participle.
- Present participles are also used as adjectives, like "a smiling face."