Question

Combine the following pairs of sentences by making use of participles:
I took a cue from his words. I solved the riddle. [Intermediate]

• A. Taking a cue from his words, I solved the riddle
• B. Solving the riddle, I took a cue from his words.
• C. Taken a cue from his words, I solved the riddle.
• D. Because I took a cue from his words I solved the riddle.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Taking a cue from his words, I solved the riddle

A participle is a verb that functions both as a verb and an adjective.
Option A is correct: "Taking" is the present participle form of the word "take". Since, the action of taking a cue has an impact on solving the riddle, hence, we should use present participle form of "take" to join the two sentences.
Option B is incorrect: Reverses the sequence of action and hence, gives a different meaning from the given sentences.
Option C is incorrect: "Taken" is the past participle form of the word "take". Past participle is used to denote a complete action. However, the action of taking a cue has an impact on solving the riddle. Hence, the action of taking a cue is incomplete and present participle should be used instead of past participle.
Option D is incorrect: The sentences are joined using because and not a participle.