Which grammatical marker formally distinguishes a French gérondif from a simple participe présent?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The preceding preposition 'en'
The French 'gérondif' consists of the preposition 'en' followed by the present participle (e.g., 'en chantant'), functioning as an adverbial modifier indicating simultaneity, manner, or cause. The bare present participle ('chantant') functions without 'en' and behaves as a verbal adjective or participial clause.
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