When a time clause has the same subject as the main clause, drop the subject and be, and change the verb to -ing for an active meaning, as in before leaving the house, she checked the locks, or leave the past participle alone for a passive meaning, as in when asked about the delay, she apologized immediately.
Grammar Rule
When a time clause has the same subject as the main clause, the subject and be can be dropped, and the verb changes to -ing or a past participle.
Reduced Time Clauses: Rules and Examples
| Meaning | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Active | verb + -ing | Before leaving the house, she checked the locks. After finishing his homework, he watched TV. |
| Passive | past participle alone | When asked about the delay, she apologized immediately. Once informed of the risks, they signed the agreement. |
Remember: same subject required; active meaning = verb + -ing; passive meaning = past participle alone.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below forming reduced time clauses correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
B2-50. Reduced Time Clauses
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Frequently Asked Questions
When can you reduce a time clause?
When the time clause has the same subject as the main clause.
How do you reduce a time clause with an active meaning?
Drop the subject and be, and change the verb to -ing, as in before leaving the house, she checked the locks.
How do you reduce a time clause with a passive meaning?
Drop the subject and be, leaving the past participle alone, as in when asked about the delay, she apologized immediately.
Can you reduce a time clause with different subjects?
No, the subjects must be identical for the reduction to be grammatically correct.