* They end in "-ing." This is the defining feature of present participles.
* They are formed by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb. For example, the present participle of "walk" is "walking."
* They can function as verbs, adjectives, or nouns.
Let's break down each function:
1. As Verbs:
* They act as the main verb in a sentence, often indicating an ongoing action.
* Example: "The dog is barking at the mailman."
2. As Adjectives:
* They describe a noun, indicating a characteristic or action.
* Example: "The roaring lion scared the tourists."
3. As Nouns:
* They represent a concept or action, often referring to a general idea.
* Example: "The running of the bulls is a dangerous tradition."
Important Note:
The form of a present participle doesn't automatically indicate its function in a sentence. You need to analyze the context to determine how it's being used.