1. As an adjective:
* Describing a noun: The *running* water is refreshing. (Describes the water)
* Modifying a noun: I saw a *soaring* eagle. (Describes the eagle)
* Expressing a state or action: *Sleeping* babies are adorable. (Describes the babies)
2. As a noun:
* Subject of a sentence: *Swimming* is a great way to stay fit.
* Object of a verb: I enjoy *dancing*.
* After a preposition: I'm exhausted from *hiking*.
3. As part of a verb phrase:
* Present continuous tense: She is *singing* a song.
* Perfect continuous tense: We have been *waiting* for hours.
* Passive voice: The project is being *completed*.
Key points to remember:
* Form: Most present participles are formed by adding "-ing" to the base form of the verb.
* Function: They can act as adjectives, nouns, or parts of verb phrases.
* Not always present: Although called "present," they can describe past, present, or future actions.
Let me know if you want to delve deeper into any specific function or have any more questions.