When discussing intellectual property or legal matters related to inventions and innovations, it’s important to know how to express the verb “patent” in the past tense. Expressing past actions correctly is crucial for clear and effective communication. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways to say “patent” in the past tense, while also providing useful tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say “Patent” in Past Tense
In formal contexts, such as legal discussions, scholarly writing, or business meetings, it is generally preferred to use precise and proper language. When referring to the past tense of “patent,” you may utilize these options:
- Patented: The most commonly used formal past tense form is “patented.” This form represents the standard and accepted way of expressing the completion of the patenting process. For example:
“The invention was patented last year, securing the inventor’s rights.”
- Obtained a Patent: Another formal alternative is to use the phrase “obtained a patent” to describe the successful completion of the patenting process. For instance:
“They successfully obtained a patent for their groundbreaking technology.”
Informal Ways to Say “Patent” in Past Tense
When engaging in casual conversations, less formal writing, or when discussing intellectual property matters with non-experts, you might opt for more relaxed variations. Here are some informal options:
- Got a Patent: Using the verb “got” instead of “obtained” is quite common in informal contexts. This choice provides a simpler and more conversational way to express the past tense of “patent.” Example:
“After years of hard work, they finally got a patent for their unique invention.”
- Secured a Patent: This phrase offers a more assertive tone and is often used when emphasizing the successful acquisition of a patent. It conveys a sense of accomplishment. For instance:
“The talented inventor secured a patent for their revolutionary new product.”
Tips and Considerations for Saying “Patent” in Past Tense
When communicating in both formal and informal settings, it’s important to keep these tips in mind to ensure accuracy and clarity:
- Consistency: Be consistent in your choice of past tense form, using it throughout your conversation or writing to avoid any confusion.
- Verb Agreement: Ensure subject-verb agreement while using the past tense. For example, “He patented his invention” as opposed to “He patents his invention.”
- Context Awareness: Adjust your language and tense choice based on the specific situation, be it a legal discussion, a casual chat, or an academic paper.
- Technical Jargon: Avoid overusing technical jargon when discussing patents in informal settings to maintain smooth communication with non-experts. Simple terms are often more effective.
- Proofread: As with any written content, always proofread to ensure proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Examples of “Patent” in Past Tense
Now, let’s explore a few more examples to illustrate how “patent” can be used in the past tense across various situations:
- Formal Examples:
– “The groundbreaking invention had been patented before any competitors emerged.”
– “Several companies have successfully obtained a patent for their advancements in solar energy.”
– “Our legal team ensured that the invention was lawfully patented to protect its intellectual rights.”
- Informal Examples:
– “They finally got their patent after multiple rejections, showcasing their resilience.”
– “I can’t believe she secured a patent for her artistic creation; it’s truly remarkable.”
– “His brilliant invention got patented, and now he’s exploring new ideas.”
Remember, the choice of past tense form for “patent” heavily depends on the setting, audience, and purpose of the conversation or writing.
By following the aforementioned tips and considering the nuances of formal and informal communication, you’ll be able to express the past tense of “patent” appropriately while conveying your message effectively.
