Given vs Giving (Explained)

In the English language, the usage of “given” and “giving” may seem similar, but they serve different functions in grammar.

Understanding the difference between these two forms is important for proper language usage. Let’s dive into the distinction between given and giving and when to use each.

When we talk about “given,” we refer to the past participle form of the verb “give.” It is used in conjunction with auxiliary verbs to form perfect tenses.

On the other hand, “giving” is the present participle form, describing ongoing actions. Both forms play crucial roles in expressing the timeline of events.

Now, let’s explore the correct usage of “given” and “giving” in more detail.

Key Takeaways:

• “Given” is the past participle form of “give” and is used with auxiliary verbs for perfect tenses.
• “Giving” is the present participle form of “give” and describes ongoing actions.
• Understanding the difference between “given” and “giving” is crucial for proper language usage.
• “Given” can also function as an adjective, indicating a specific time or address or someone being inclined to feel a certain way.
• When using the present perfect tense, always use “have given” instead of “have gave” to maintain grammatical accuracy.

Continue reading to explore the past tense forms, correct usage, and reasons for giving.

The Past Tense: Gave vs Given

In English grammar, the past tense of the verb “give” has two forms: “gave” and “given.” Understanding the difference between these two forms is essential for using them correctly in sentences.

The simple past tense form, “gave,” is used to talk about past actions of giving. For example, you would say, “I gave you a gift yesterday.” This form is suitable for describing a specific event or action that happened in the past.

The past participle form, “given,” requires an auxiliary verb like “have” to form perfect tenses. It is used to indicate that a giving action has occurred at some point before the present moment.

For instance, you would say, “You have given me a lot of help.” In this case, the action of giving has happened in the past, but its effects are still relevant in the present.

By using the appropriate past tense form of “give,” you can accurately convey the timing and significance of giving actions in your writing.

Correct Usage of “Gave”

The verb “gave” is used to describe actions that occurred in the past. It is the simple past tense of the verb “give.”

When using “gave,” we are referring to actions that are no longer happening and have no connection to the present or future. For example:

“She gave him a book for his birthday.”

In this sentence, the action of giving the book happened in the past and is now complete. The verb form “gave” remains the same regardless of the subject or pronoun used.

It is important to note that “gave” is not used to form perfect tenses or describe ongoing actions. For those cases, we use the past participle form “given” accompanied by an auxiliary verb like “have.” For example:

“You have given me a lot of help.”

Here, “given” is the past participle form of “give,” and it is used with the auxiliary verb “have” to form the present perfect tense.

To summarize, “gave” is the correct verb form to use when describing past actions that are no longer happening. It is important to use the appropriate verb form to convey the intended meaning and maintain grammatical accuracy.

Table:

Correct Usage of “Given”

Understanding the correct usage of “given” is essential for mastering perfect tenses in English grammar. “Given” is the past participle form of the verb “give” and is used in combination with auxiliary verbs to form the perfect tenses.

It is important to note that “given” is never used alone and requires the presence of an auxiliary verb.

When forming the present perfect tense, “given” is used with the auxiliary verb “have.” For example, “I have given you my support.” This indicates an action that was completed in the past but has ongoing relevance in the present.

Similarly, when forming the past perfect tense, “given” is used with the auxiliary verb “had.” For example, “He had given up before he found success.”

It is crucial to remember that the past participle form “given” remains the same regardless of the subject.

Whether it is “I have given,” “you have given,” or “they have given,” the word “given” remains unchanged. This consistency makes it easier to identify and use correctly in sentences.

“Given” is an important verb form that is used to indicate actions that were completed in the past but have ongoing relevance in the present. It is always accompanied by an auxiliary verb and remains unchanged regardless of the subject. Understanding and using “given” correctly will enhance your ability to form perfect tenses and communicate effectively in English.

Given as an Adjective

Besides being a verb form, “given” can also function as an adjective. When used as an adjective, it can refer to a specific time or address, such as “the given time” or “the given address.”

This usage indicates a specific and predetermined value or location. For example, in a mathematical equation, you might come across the term “given variables,” which refers to the values that are already given and should be used in the calculation.

In addition to denoting a specific time or address, “given” can also describe someone’s inclination to feel a certain way.

For instance, if you say that someone is “given to anger,” it means that they are prone to feeling angry or easily provoked. This usage highlights a characteristic or tendency of an individual.

“Given the circumstances, it’s best to proceed with caution,” she said, emphasizing the importance of considering the existing conditions before making a decision.

Using “given” as an adjective helps provide clarity and specificity in language, allowing for more precise communication.

It adds depth and context to descriptions and enables the reader or listener to understand the particular context or predisposition being discussed.

“Have Gave” vs “Have Given”

In English grammar, the correct form is “have given” and not “have gave” when using the present perfect tense.

The present perfect tense is formed by combining the auxiliary verb “have” with the past participle form of the verb “give,” which is “given.”

This tense is used to describe actions that started in the past but have continued into the present or have a connection to the present. Using “have gave” is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided.

For example, if you want to express that you have given someone a gift recently, you would say, “I have given you a gift.”

The use of “have given” indicates that the action of giving has occurred in the past and has relevance to the present moment.

Conversely, saying “I have gave you a gift” is incorrect and would not convey the intended meaning.

It is important to remember that the past participle form “given” is used in combination with auxiliary verbs like “have” to form perfect tenses. This correct usage ensures clear and accurate communication in written and spoken English.

Table: Present Perfect Tense of “Give”

By using the correct form “have given,” you can express actions that have occurred in the past and have a connection to the present.

This ensures grammatical accuracy and effective communication in various contexts, whether in writing or conversation.

Reasons to Give

In many religious traditions, giving is seen as an important spiritual practice. There are several reasons why individuals choose to give, including:

• Trust in God: Giving a portion of one’s income to support the church is an act of faith and trust in God’s provision. It is an acknowledgment that all blessings come from a higher power.
• Generosity: Giving is an expression of generosity and a way to demonstrate care and compassion for others. It allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
• Supporting the Church: By giving to the church, individuals help support its ongoing work and mission. This includes funding various programs, outreach efforts, and the overall maintenance of the church community.

Giving not only benefits others but also fosters a grateful and generous attitude within individuals. It helps combat greed and materialism by shifting the focus from personal accumulation to supporting the greater good.

Giving is not just about making a financial contribution; it’s a way to express gratitude and show love for others. It’s an opportunity to be a blessing to those in need and make a positive difference in the world.” – Unknown

Ultimately, the decision to give is a personal one, influenced by individual beliefs, values, and financial circumstances. However, it is widely recognized that giving contributes to personal growth, spiritual fulfillment, and a sense of purpose in life.