Gerunds for intermediate learners
Gerunds are words derived from verbs that act as nouns. All gerunds include a verb and -ing. In this lesson, we will learn more about them.
Functions
Gerunds can serve different functions in sentences. The list below presents some of their functions:
Now, let us discuss some of them in more detail.
Gerunds as the Subject
Gerunds are commonly used as the subject of the verb. Study the following examples carefully:
Gerunds as the Object
Gerunds can also serve as the object of the verb. Take a look at the following examples:
Do you think she enjoys
Anna hates
Gerunds as Objects of Prepositions
Gerunds can also appear after prepositions and function as objects of prepositions. Check out the following examples:
I'm not afraid of
She is really skilled at
Spelling Rules
Sometimes the spellings of verbs undergo changes when forming gerunds. Let us learn more about them below:
- If the verb ends in '-ie', change it to '-y' before adding '-ing':
Die →
Lie →
- If the verb ends in '-e', remove it and then add the '-ing':
Strike →
Take →
Gerunds Vs. Present Participles
Although gerunds and present Participles look the same, they have different functions. Present Participles are used as verbs or adjectives while gerunds function as nouns. Compare the following examples:
Here, the highlighted phrase is a gerund because it is functioning as a noun.
I'm
As you can see, the highlighted word is a present participle and is functioning as a verb.
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