Sometimes we can use a present or past participle as an adjective or an adverb to show two actions in one sentence. This allows us to simplify the sentence or avoid dividing it into two.
Present Participle as an Adjective or an Adverb
Rule 1: We use Partizip I (present participle) as a word that acts like an adjective or an adverb when we want to describe two things that are happening at the same time. This way we avoid a second sentence.
We form it by adding a -d at the end of the infinitive form.
Rule 2: When the present participle is placed before a noun, we need to add the correct adjective ending.
Rule 3: It doesn’t matter if the action in question takes place in the present, the past or the future. The present participle stays the same.
Past Participle as an Adjective or an Adverb
Rule 4: We use Partizip 2 (past participle) as a word that acts like an adjective or an adverb when we want to express a completed past action or a passive action. This way, we avoid a second sentence.
We generally form it with "ge-" and "-t" ath the end (gemacht, gekauft).
Rule 5: When the past participle is placed before a noun, we need to add the correct adjective ending.