SKILL 14: USE REDUCED ADVERB CLAUSES CORRECTLY

SKILL 14: USE REDUCED ADVERB CLAUSES CORRECTLY

Adverb clauses can also appear in a reduced form. In the reduced form, the adverb connector remains, but the subject and be-verb are omitted.
 

If there is no be-verb in the adverb clause, it is still possible to have a reduced form. When there is no be-verb in the adverb clause, the subject is omitted and the main verb is changed into the –ing form. 



It should be noted that not all adverb clauses can appear in a reduced form, and a number of adverb clauses can only be reduced if the verb is in the passive form.


In the first example, the adverb clause once you submit your thesis does not reduce because clauses introduced by once only reduce if the verb is passive, and the verb submit is active. In the second example, the adverb clause once it is submitted does reduce to once submitted because the clause is introduced by once and the verb is submitted is passive.
 

EXERCISE 14: Each of the following sentences contains a reduced adverb clause. Circle the adverb connectors. Underline the reduced clauses. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

 

3.        (_____) The ointment can be applied where needed.

4.        (_____) Tom began to look for a job after completing his master’s degree in engineering.

5.        (_____) Although not selecting for the team, he attends all of the games as fan.

6.        (_____) When purchased at this store, the buyer gets a guarantee on all items.

7.        (_____) The medicine is not effective unless taken as directed.

8.        (_____) You should negotiate a lot before buy a new car.

9.        (_____) Once purchased, the swimsuits cannot be returned.

10.    (_____) Though located near the coast, the town does not get much of an ocean breeze.

ANSWER KEY

1.        C

2.        I (left should be leaving)

3.        C

4.        C

5.        I (selecting should be selected)

6.        I (illogical reduction)

7.        C

8.        I (buy should be buying)

9.        C

10.    C