Expression: I tripped over, dropping...

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi

Could you please tell me if there is any difference between the given sentences?

1- I tripped over, dropped the tray I was carrying.
2- I tripped over, dropping the tray I was carrying.

Tom

2

Hi Tom

You can say any of the following:

  • I tripped and dropped the tray I was carrying.
  • I tripped over the stool and dropped the tray I was carrying.
  • I tripped, dropping the tray I was carrying.
  • I tripped over the stool, dropping the tray I was carrying.

If you use the word over, you have to say what it was that you tripped over. Otherwise, you should just say tripped.

Other than that, the sentences all have the same meaning.

Amy