1. BonanzaFan2011

    BonanzaFan2011 New Member

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    A Bit Confused

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by BonanzaFan2011, May 27, 2011.

    Hey guys,

    A story which I am writing is in present tense and I'm slowly getting the gist of it though a bit confused with this sentence I'm trying to work out.

    When Ben looks at the time, he is shocked to see that it has gone past midnight.

    Should it be read "was" shocked or "is" shocked?

    Any help would be grateful. Thanks.
     
  2. Cogito

    Cogito Former Mod, Retired Supporter Contributor

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    What is the principal verb in the sentence?

    The unadorned sentence is he is shocked. Everything else modifies and elaborates on that.

    So the verb pf that sentence, is, needs to be in present tense, so what you have is correct.
     
  3. BonanzaFan2011

    BonanzaFan2011 New Member

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    Many thanks - appreciate the help :)
     

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