The Importance of Verb Tense in Complex Sentences

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 37 views

When it comes to using the correct form of a verb in a sentence, especially in complex sentences with subordinate clauses, it can be challenging to determine the correct tense. In this article, we will explore the use of the verb "ended" in a sentence and why it is the appropriate choice in a specific context.

The Importance of Verb Tense in Complex Sentences

In complex sentences, the verb tense can be influenced by the subordinate clause. A subordinate clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It is often introduced by a subordinating conjunction, such as "because," "although," or "if." The verb tense in the main clause can be influenced by the verb tense in the subordinate clause.

The Excerpt from the Reuters News Article

The following is an excerpt from a Reuters news article:

"Canada immediately imposed 25% tariffs on C$30 billion of U.S. imports and Trudeau said those measures would remain in place until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods."

Why "Ended" is the Appropriate Choice

In this sentence, the verb "ended" is used in the subordinate clause to indicate the point in time when the Trump administration's tariffs on Canadian goods would cease. The use of the verb "ended" in the past tense is appropriate because it indicates a completed action that occurred before the present time.

The Role of the Subordinate Clause

The subordinate clause "until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods" provides a specific condition that must be met before the main clause can be fulfilled. The use of the verb "ended" in this clause indicates that the action of ending the tariffs is a completed action that occurred before the present time.

The Main Clause and the Verb Tense

The main clause "Trudeau said those measures would remain in place" is in the present tense, indicating that the action of remaining in place is ongoing. However, the verb tense in the main clause is influenced by the verb tense in the subordinate clause. The use of the verb "ended" in the subordinate clause indicates that the action of ending the tariffs is a completed action that occurred before the present time.

The Importance of Understanding Verb Tense in Complex Sentences

Understanding the verb tense in complex sentences is crucial for effective communication. The use of the correct verb tense can convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion. In this article, we have explored the use of the verb "ended" in a sentence and why it is the appropriate choice in a specific context.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of the verb "ended" in the sentence "until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods" is the appropriate choice because it indicates a completed action that occurred before the present time. The use of the verb "ended" in the subordinate clause influences the verb tense in the main clause, which is in the present tense. Understanding the verb tense in complex sentences is crucial for effective communication and avoiding confusion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using the verb "ended" in a sentence, it is essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using the verb "ends" instead of "ended" in the subordinate clause. This can change the meaning of the sentence and make it unclear.
Using the verb "ended" in the main clause instead of the present tense. This can make the sentence unclear and confusing.

Tips for Using Verb Tense in Complex Sentences

Here are some tips for using verb tense in complex sentences:

Read the sentence carefully and identify the subordinate clause.
Determine the verb tense in the subordinate clause and how it influences the verb tense in the main clause.
Use the correct verb tense in the main clause to convey the intended meaning.
Avoid common mistakes, such as using the wrong verb tense or changing the meaning of the sentence.

Conclusion

In our previous article, we explored the use of the verb "ended" in a sentence and why it is the appropriate choice in a specific context. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about verb tense in complex sentences.

Q: What is the difference between "ended" and "ends" in a sentence?

A: The verb "ended" is in the past tense, indicating a completed action that occurred before the present time. The verb "ends" is in the present tense, indicating an ongoing action. In the sentence "until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods," the verb "ended" is used to indicate a completed action that occurred before the present time.

Q: How do I determine the verb tense in a complex sentence?

A: To determine the verb tense in a complex sentence, read the sentence carefully and identify the subordinate clause. Determine the verb tense in the subordinate clause and how it influences the verb tense in the main clause. Use the correct verb tense in the main clause to convey the intended meaning.

Q: What is a subordinate clause?

A: A subordinate clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It is often introduced by a subordinating conjunction, such as "because," "although," or "if." The verb tense in the main clause can be influenced by the verb tense in the subordinate clause.

Q: How do I use the verb tense in a sentence with multiple clauses?

A: When using the verb tense in a sentence with multiple clauses, read the sentence carefully and identify each clause. Determine the verb tense in each clause and how it influences the verb tense in the other clauses. Use the correct verb tense in each clause to convey the intended meaning.

Q: What is the difference between "will" and "would" in a sentence?

A: The verb "will" is used to indicate a future action that is certain to occur. The verb "would" is used to indicate a future action that is uncertain or hypothetical. In the sentence "Trudeau said those measures would remain in place until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods," the verb "would" is used to indicate a future action that is uncertain.

Q: How do I use the verb tense in a sentence with a conditional clause?

A: When using the verb tense in a sentence with a conditional clause, read the sentence carefully and identify the conditional clause. Determine the verb tense in the conditional clause and how it influences the verb tense in the main clause. Use the correct verb tense in the main clause to convey the intended meaning.

Q: What is the difference between "can" and "could" in a sentence?

A: The verb "can" is used to indicate a present ability or possibility. The verb "could" is used to indicate a past ability or possibility. In the sentence "Trudeau said those measures would remain in place until the Trump administration ended its tariffs on Canadian goods," the verb "could" is used to indicate a past ability or possibility.

Q: How do I use the verb tense in a sentence with a relative clause?

A: When using the verb tense in a sentence with a relative clause, read the sentence carefully and identify the relative clause. Determine the verb tense in the relative clause and how it influences the verb tense in the main clause. Use the correct verb tense in the main clause to convey the intended meaning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the verb tense in complex sentences is crucial for effective communication. The use of the correct verb tense can convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion. By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can use verb tense in complex sentences effectively and convey your intended meaning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using the verb tense in complex sentences, it is essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using the wrong verb tense in a sentence with multiple clauses.
Changing the meaning of the sentence by using the wrong verb tense.
Failing to identify the subordinate clause and its influence on the verb tense in the main clause.

Tips for Using Verb Tense in Complex Sentences

Here are some tips for using verb tense in complex sentences:

Read the sentence carefully and identify each clause.
Determine the verb tense in each clause and how it influences the verb tense in the other clauses.
Use the correct verb tense in each clause to convey the intended meaning.
Avoid common mistakes, such as using the wrong verb tense or changing the meaning of the sentence.