A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun.
*Swimming is good exercise.* (subject) *I enjoy reading.* (object)
Gerund as Subject
When a gerund is the subject, it takes a singular verb:
*Running keeps you fit.* *Learning a language takes time.* *Smoking is harmful to your health.*
Gerund as Object
Many verbs are followed by a gerund (not an infinitive):
| Verb + Gerund | Example | | ------------- | ------------------------------------- | | enjoy | I enjoy cooking. | | avoid | She avoids driving at night. | | suggest | He suggested waiting. | | consider | They are considering moving. | | finish | We finished eating. | | mind | Do you mind opening the window? | | practise | You should practise speaking. |
Gerund after Prepositions
After prepositions, always use a gerund:
Thank you for helping me. She is interested in learning Chinese. He left without saying goodbye.
Gerund vs. Present Participle
| | Gerund | Present Participle | | -------- | ----------------------- | ------------------------------------ | | Function | Acts as a noun | Part of continuous verb or adjective | | Example | *Cooking is fun.* | She is cooking dinner. |
Common Expressions with Gerunds
| Expression | Example | | --------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | | It is no use | It is no use crying over spilt milk. | | Can not help | I cannot help laughing. | | Look forward to | I look forward to hearing from you. | | Be worth | This book is worth reading. | | Have difficulty | She has difficulty understanding accents. |