Correct Phrases Using ‘Boarded’ in English Grammar
English grammar can sometimes be nuanced and subtle, leading to confusion among learners and even native speakers. One such common confusion pertains to the use of the phrase 'having boarded the plane' versus 'getting boarded the plane.' Both have their correct usage, but only one is grammatically sound. Understanding these distinctions can improve your overall writing and communication skills.
Understanding the Correct Usage
The correct phrase is “having boarded the plane.” This construction uses the perfect participle form of the verb 'to board,' which denotes an action completed at a specific point in the past. For example, if we say 'Having boarded the plane, I started looking for my seat,' we indicate that the act of boarding the plane has already taken place.
Why 'Having Boarded the Plane' is Correct
This perfect participle phrase functions as a dangling modifier. It attaches the action of boarding to the subject of the main clause, which in this case is 'I.' A dangling modifier allows for additional context or explanation, such as 'Having boarded the plane, I started looking for my seat, and I relaxed a bit once I found my assigned row.' The comma is necessary to separate the modifying phrase from the main clause, making the sentence clearer.
When we say 'getting boarded the plane,' it is not grammatically correct. This incorrect phrase often appears due to a misunderstanding of the verb tense and the correct usage of prepositions. The correct forms would be 'getting aboard a plane' or 'getting on board a plane.' These phrases convey the action of boarding the plane in the present continuous tense.
Examples of Proper Usage
Here are some additional examples to help illustrate the correct use of 'boarded' in context:
1. Having boarded the plane
- Having boarded the plane, I started looking for my seat.
2. Boarding the plane
- Boarding the plane in sweltering heat can be uneasy.
3. On board a plane
- I am on board a plane. This means that I am currently on the plane.
4. Abroad a plane
- I am aboard a plane. This also means that I am on the plane, but with a slightly different connotation.
5. Have boarded the plane
- I have boarded the plane. This indicates a past action that has been completed.
6. Am boarding the plane
- I am boarding the plane. This indicates an ongoing action.
7. Am getting off board
- This means I am exiting the plane. The opposite meaning to the above example.
8. Am getting aboard
- This sentence has the opposite meaning to 'getting off board,' indicating the act of entering the plane.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the correct usage of 'boarded,' 'getting aboard,' and 'getting on board' can significantly enhance your language skills. Remember that using the perfect participle form 'having boarded the plane' correctly sets up the action in the past. Meanwhile, the present continuous forms like 'getting aboard a plane' describe actions in the present. Utilizing these phrases appropriately will make your writing clearer and more precise.