Participle and Relative Clauses

Dear Ola, Please explain how to use participle instead of relative clauses? Also, could you tell me if the following sentences are correct or wrong? Does the second example give the past meaning?


Can you remember the methods "using" to solve this problem?

Can you remember the methods "used" to solve this problem?

Diana here: I changed "remind" to "remember" in your sentences. We use remind when something triggers a memory (and it is usually followed by a subject or person) and we use remember when it is the person directly recalling something.

Ex: I can't remember where my car keys are.
Could you remind me to put my keys in my bag when we get home?

Comments for Participle and Relative Clauses

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Jan 18, 2011
 Answer
by: Ola Zur

Hi,

There is a very good explanation on using participles instead of relative clauses over here:
Participles and relative clauses

Regarding the two sentences:

1) Can you remember the methods "using" to solve this problem?
This sentence is incorrect.
It is like saying: "Can you remember the methods that are using to solve the problem?

The methods are used (passive), not "using" (active). You use the methods, therefore the methods are used.

2) Can you remember the methods "used" to solve this problem?
This sentence is correct.
It is like saying: "Can you remember the methods that are used to solve this problem?

Now, "are used" = present tense, passive.
"Were used" = past tense, passive.
"Will be used" = future tense, passive.

"am using" = present tense, active.
"was using" = past tense, active.
"will be using" = future tense, active.

I hope this helps...

Ola Zur is the editor of www.really-learn-english.com, an illustrated guide to English.

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