Which verb fits?
Choose a verb for each sentence. Use each verb once and change its form if needed. Think of or say your answers, then open the answer box.
MEET · MAINTAIN · PROVIDE
- The layout must _____ the clearance requirements.
- We need to _____ enough working space.
- A minimum clear width must be _____ along the corridor.
Check your answers
- The layout must meet the clearance requirements.
It must satisfy those requirements. - We need to provide enough working space.
We need to include enough space in the design. - A minimum clear width must be maintained along the corridor.
The required width must be open and clear, without obstructions.
Grammar note: in sentence 3, use must be maintained, not “must be maintain.”
be + v-ed (or past participle) is passive voice. It’s a powerful tool when talking about requirements.
1. Meet the requirements
Meet means satisfy a requirement or standard.
meet + requirements / standards / specifications
“The electrical panel placement doesn’t meet the clearance requirements.”
2. Provide enough space
Provide means give, create.
provide + space / clearance / access
“We need to provide enough maneuvering space between the work surfaces.”
You can add for to explain the purpose: “Provide enough space for maintenance.”
3. Maintain the clearance
Maintain means to keep, preserve, or protect the size or dimension of something.
maintain + clearance / clear width / spacing
“We need to maintain the minimum clear width along the corridor.”
Grammar note: In design communcation, you can put the space as the subject: “The minimum clear width must be maintained.”
another example of passive voice. be + v-ed (or past participle)
Remember:
meet a requirement
provide space
maintain a clearance
