Are you confused about when to use “taking” or “taken” in your sentences? It’s a common dilemma for many English learners, but with a little knowledge, you can avoid making mistakes and sound more professional in your writing.
Let’s start with the basics. “Taking” is the present participle of the verb “take,” which means to hold, grasp, or receive something. On the other hand, “taken” is the past participle of “take,” which means something that has been received, captured, or brought under control.
Here are some examples to help you distinguish between “taking” and “taken.”
1. I am taking a shower
2. She has taken a shower
In the first example, “taking” is used because the action is ongoing, and the subject is currently in the process of taking a shower. In contrast, the second sentence uses “taken” because the subject has already completed the action of taking a shower.
Now, let’s explore some other situations where “taking” or “taken” may be used.
When to use “taking”?
1. To express an ongoing activity:
“I am taking a class on literature.”
2. To describe someone’s behavior:
“He is taking his boss’s advice.”
3. To refer to medications or drugs being consumed:
“She is taking aspirin for her headache.”
4. To indicate transportation:
“I am taking a taxi to the airport.”
5. To define involvement or responsibility:
“I am taking responsibility for the project.”
When to use “taken”?
1. To refer to the past:
“She has taken dance lessons since she was five.”
2. To describe an action that has been completed:
“He has taken care of the paperwork.”
3. To indicate a state of possession:
“They have taken ownership of the property.”
4. To show that permission has been granted:
“I have taken permission from my boss to take a day off.”
5. To show control over something:
“The police have taken the suspect into custody.”
So, what are some tips that can help you use “taking” or “taken” correctly in your sentences? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Pay attention to the tense: If you’re talking about something that is happening currently, use “taking.” If you’re discussing something that has already happened, use “taken.”
2. Think about the context: Consider the situation or the event being described and choose the appropriate form of the verb.
3. Use an online grammar checker: There are several online tools available that can help you check your grammar and ensure that you’re using the right form of the verb.
4. Read widely: To improve your grammar and sentence structure, read widely and pay attention to how other writers use “taking” or “taken.”
Using “taking” and “taken” correctly may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in how your writing is perceived. By following the guidelines presented here, you can avoid making mistakes and present yourself as a knowledgeable and competent writer. Happy writing!