In this lesson, we will explore Gerund Phrases and how they function as subjects and objects in sentences. By the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to identify and use gerund phrases correctly in your writing and speaking.
What is a Gerund?
A gerund is a verb form that ends in -ing and functions as a noun in a sentence. For example:
- Running
- Swimming
- Reading
These words are gerunds because they are formed by adding -ing to the base verb and act as nouns.
Gerund Phrases
A gerund phrase includes the gerund and any modifiers or complements that go with it. It always functions as a noun in a sentence. Here are some examples:
| Gerund Phrase | Function |
|---|---|
| Eating healthy food | Subject |
| Going to the gym every day | Object of a Verb |
| Taking long walks in the park | Subject |
Gerund Phrases as Subjects
When a gerund phrase acts as the subject of a sentence, it performs the action or represents the main idea of the sentence. Here are some examples:
Examples:
- Learning a new language takes time and effort.
- Exercising regularly improves your health.
- Traveling to new places broadens your perspective.
Structure:
- Gerund Phrase + Verb + Rest of Sentence
Gerund Phrases as Objects
Gerund phrases can also act as objects in a sentence. They typically follow verbs, prepositions, or adjectives. Let’s break this down further.
1. Gerund Phrases as Objects of Verbs
Some verbs are commonly followed by gerunds. Here are a few examples:
| Verb | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Enjoy | I enjoy reading books. |
| Avoid | She avoids eating junk food. |
| Consider | They are considering moving to another city. |
2. Gerund Phrases as Objects of Prepositions
Prepositions are often followed by gerunds. Here are some examples:
| Preposition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| By | He improved his skills by practicing daily. |
| Without | She left the house without saying goodbye. |
| After | After finishing her homework, she watched TV. |
3. Gerund Phrases as Objects of Adjectives
Certain adjectives are followed by gerunds. Here’s an example:
- She is interested in learning about history.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing Gerunds with Infinitives:
- Gerunds end in -ing, while infinitives begin with to.
- Correct: I enjoy swimming.
- Incorrect: I enjoy to swim.
- Gerunds end in -ing, while infinitives begin with to.
- Using Gerunds After Certain Verbs:
- Some verbs require gerunds, not infinitives. For example:
- Correct: He avoids eating too much sugar.
- Incorrect: He avoids to eat too much sugar.
- Some verbs require gerunds, not infinitives. For example:
Key Takeaways
- A gerund ends in -ing and acts as a noun.
- A gerund phrase includes the gerund and its modifiers or complements.
- Gerund phrases can function as subjects or objects in a sentence.
- Be careful not to confuse gerunds with infinitives.