Conditional participle clauses

Conditional participle clauses are participle clauses used to show a condition for the main clause. While past and present participles are commonly used to show conditions, perfect participle clauses are not normally used to express conditions as they describe completed events rather than requirements.

This guide and a number of conditional participle clause activities are available to download as PDF documents.

Past participle clauses showing condition

Past participle clauses are used to show a condition that needs to have been met before the situation in the main clause happens. These clauses should typically be introduced by a conditional subordinator such as if, when, once, unless, etc. For example:

• If damaged, return the item.
• When injured, you should see a doctor.
• If stolen, the card must be cancelled straight away.
• Once published, the article cannot be changed.
• If lost, the ticket cannot be replaced.
• Unless stated otherwise, the rules apply to everyone.

In a small number of fixed or conventional expressions, a past participle clause can appear without a conditional subordinator. In these cases, the participle phrase itself is understood as setting a condition or viewpoint, rather than describing an event. For example:

• Given clearer instructions, the task would be much easier.
• Taken literally, it could easily confuse people.
• Judged by today’s standards, the film feels dated.
• Seen in this light, the decision makes sense.
• Measured against the budget, the project is affordable.
• Considered carefully, the proposal has real merit.

Present participle clauses showing condition

Present participle clauses are used to show a condition that needs to be met at the same time as the situation in the main clause happens. A conditional subordinator is almost always required to introduce a present participle clause used to show a condition:

• When crossing the road, look both ways.
• If driving at night, use your headlights.
• If travelling abroad, take out insurance.
• When entering the exam room, you must remain silent.
• If working from home, make sure you have a quiet space.
• When using this machine, wear protective gloves.

Like past participle clauses showing conditions, a small number of absolute present-participle clauses can also express a condition without a subordinator. These are fixed, conventional expressions built mainly around verbs such as permit and allow, which already contain the idea of “making something possible.” In these cases, the participle phrase itself functions as the conditional frame. For example:

• Weather permitting, we’ll go at the weekend.
• Time allowing, I’ll take questions at the end.
• Traffic permitting, we’ll arrive at 2pm.
• Circumstances allowing, the trip will go ahead.
• Resources permitting, the project will be expanded.
• Schedule allowing, we’ll fit in a second meeting next week.

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