Verbless Clauses and Participial Clauses

Guidance will be given to enable you to (a) clearly see the linguistic structures of the following expressions; and (b) readily produce expressions with such structures.

To ensure your success, adequate examples will be further provided with clear explanation.

Verbless Clauses

- I don't want to repeat their accusations, many of them malicious.
- Although competent in his work, he did not have his employment contract renewed.
- While in Rome, be sure to visit the Colosseum.
- Of humble birth, he began his working life in a factory.
- If necessary, he will take notes for you.
- With the children at school, we can't take our vacations when we want to.
- Though now frail, they are quite capable of looking after themselves.
- Seventy-three people were drowned, many of them children.

Participial Clauses (-ing Clauses and –ed Clauses)

Returning to my village after 30 years, I met an old primary school teacher.
Knowing her pretty well, I realised that something was wrong.
Leaving the room, he tripped over the mat.
Being unable to help her in any other way, I gave her some money.
Not knowing what to do, I consulted my Dad.
Carrying about 5,000 sailors and more than 80 aircraft, the nuclear-powered USS George Washington left for the Philippines as part of the US' efforts to help the typhoon-stricken country.

Faced with mounting evidence, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford eventually admitted having smoked crack cocaine.
When questioned, she denied being a member of the group.
Hampered by power and communication failures and widespread infrastructure destruction, relief operation in the Philippines has been extremely difficult.
Allowed unusual privileges, the prisoner seems to enjoy his captivity.
Though badly frightened, she remained outwardly composed.
Kept in the refrigerator, the drug should remain effective for at least 3 months.
Devastated by the earthquake, many buildings are no longer habitable.
Quite unprompted, Sam started telling us exactly what happened last night.
Jammed with street performers, hawkers, salesmen and activities of all sorts, Sai Yeung Choi Street South in Mongkok is a kaleidoscope of Hong Kong's street culture.