Gerunds are verb forms ending in -ing that function as nouns in a sentence. They can appear as subjects, objects, or complements, and can also be part of a gerund phrase that includes other words.
Uses
Gerunds are used in several ways within sentences:
- Subject of a sentence:
- Swimming* is good exercise.
- Swimming takes the role of the subject.
- Object of a verb:
- She enjoys reading.
- Reading functions as the object of enjoys.
- Object of a preposition:
- He is good at painting.
- Painting follows the preposition at.
- Subject complement:
- Her favorite hobby is dancing.
- Dancing complements the subject after the linking verb is.
- In compound elements:
- They started running late.
- `started running` shows the verb started followed by the gerund running.
Structure
The structure of gerunds can be simple or include additional words to form a gerund phrase:
- Simple gerund: verb + -ing
- Reading*
- Swimming*
- Jogging*
- Gerund + object:
- Writing stories*
- Drawing pictures*
- Gerund + modifiers:
- Singing loudly*
- Running quickly*
- Gerund phrase example:
- Reading books at night* helps me relax.
Key Points
- Gerunds always end in -ing.
- They function as nouns, even though they look like verbs.
- Unlike present participles, gerunds are not used to form continuous tenses; their role is to name an activity or idea.
- Gerunds can carry objects and modifiers, just like verbs.
How do gerunds differ from present participles?
Gerunds act as nouns, while present participles form continuous tenses or act as adjectives
Both end in -ing, but gerunds function as nouns, while present participles form continuous tenses or modify nouns.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
