THE SEQUENCE OF TENSES

5. The Sequence of Tenses is the principle in accordance with which the Tense of the

verb in a subordinate clause follows the Tense of the verb in the principal clause.

(Sequence is connected with the Latin verb sequor, follow.)

The Sequence of Tenses applies chiefly to Adverb Clauses of Purpose and Noun Clauses.

96. A Past Tense in the principal clause is followed by a Past Tense in the subordinate

clause; as,

He hinted that he wanted money.

She replied that she felt better.

I found out that he was guilty.

He saw that the clock had stopped.

He replied that he would come.

I never thought that T should see him again.

I took care that he should not hear me.

They climbed higher so that they might get a better view.

I worked hard so that I might succeed.

There are, however, two exceptions to this rule:-

(i)A Past Tense in the principal clause may be followed by a Present Tense in the

subordinate clause when the subordinate clause expresses a universal truth ; as,

Newton discovered that the force of gravitation makes apples fall.

Galileo maintained that the earth moves round the sun.

Euclid proved that the three angles of a triangle are equal to two right angles.

He said that honesty is always the best policy.

(ii) When the subordinate clause is introduced by than, even if there is a Past Tense in the

principal clause, it may be followed by any Tense required by the sense in the

subordinate clause; as,

He liked you better than he likes me.

He helped him more than he helps his own children.

I then saw him oftener than I see him now.

He valued his friendship more than he values mine.