Extended participial attributes
B2 · Upper-Intermediate · Style & Precision
The rule
Participle phrases before a noun.
How it works
In formal German, a long participle phrase can stand before a noun instead of a relative clause: der in Berlin lebende Künstler (the artist living in Berlin). The participle takes adjective endings and the whole phrase is placed in front of the noun. This construction is common in newspapers and academic texts, but it is harder to read in speech.
When to use it
Place long participle phrases before a noun in formal writing, such as "der in Berlin lebende Künstler".
Use cases
- Writing formal descriptions: Die von der Regierung beschlossene Reform
- Describing a person in an article: Die in Wien arbeitende Ärztin
- Writing academic definitions: Die im Text beschriebene Methode
Examples
- die seit Jahren leidende Frau – the woman who has been suffering for years
- Der gestern veröffentlichte Bericht ist wichtig. – The report published yesterday is important.
- Die von uns gewählte Lösung ist einfach. – The solution we chose is simple.
- Das seit Jahren geplante Projekt beginnt nächsten Monat. – The project planned for years starts next month.
Common mistake
Using such constructions in conversation, where a relative clause is more natural.
Memory tip
In writing, a long participle phrase can replace a relative clause.