Participler

Participler is the term used in linguistics to describe a class of non-finite verb forms derived from verbs that can function as adjectives or form parts of verb complexes. Most languages recognize at least two major participle types: the present participle and the past participle. The present participle typically marks ongoing aspect and often doubles as an adjective or adverbial modifier. The past participle usually marks completed aspect and is used to form perfect tenses and passive constructions, and can also serve as an adjective.

In English, the present participle ends in -ing (running, writing) and is used to build progressive tenses (They are running) and as a noun in some cases (Running is fun). The past participle forms the basis of perfect tenses (has run, have written) and the passive (the ball was thrown). Many languages have irregular participle forms.

Across languages, participles vary in form and use. German, for instance, has Partizip I (present participle; often ending in -end) and Partizip II (past participle; used with auxiliary verbs to form perfect tenses and passive). Romance languages typically employ participles to form compound tenses and passive voice, and to create participial adjectives and clauses.

Understanding participles is essential for analyzing tense systems, voice, and adjectival modification in languages.