If you’ve ever seen a verb ending in -ing and wondered whether it’s a verb or a noun, you’re not alone. This is where gerunds come into play. In this guide, you’ll learn everything ESL learners need to know about gerunds—what they are, how to use them, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a Gerund?
A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun in a sentence.
Even though it looks like a verb, a gerund plays the role of a noun. That means it can be the subject, object, or complement in a sentence.
Examples:
- Swimming is good exercise. (subject)
- I enjoy reading. (object)
- My favorite activity is dancing. (complement)
How to Form a Gerund
Simply add “-ing” to the base form of the verb:
| Verb | Gerund |
|---|---|
| read | reading |
| run | running |
| eat | eating |
| write | writing |
Spelling Rules:
- Drop the “e” and add “-ing”: make → making
- Double the final consonant if a one-syllable verb ends in consonant-vowel-consonant: run → running
- Just add “-ing” if none of the rules apply: jump → jumping
When to Use Gerunds
1. As the Subject of a Sentence
- Running helps me clear my mind.
- Cooking is my passion.
2. As the Object of a Verb
Some verbs are followed by gerunds:
- enjoy
- avoid
- finish
- consider
- suggest
- keep
Examples:
- She enjoys traveling.
- They avoided talking about politics.
3. As the Object of a Preposition
- He’s interested in learning new languages.
- I’m tired of waiting.
4. After Certain Expressions
These common expressions are followed by gerunds:
- can’t help
- it’s no use
- be used to
- look forward to
Examples:
- I can’t help laughing at his jokes.
- We’re looking forward to meeting you.
Gerund vs. Infinitive
Some verbs can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive, but the meaning might change.
| Verb | Followed by Gerund | Followed by Infinitive |
|---|---|---|
| remember | I remember locking the door. (past action) | Remember to lock the door. (future action) |
| stop | He stopped smoking. (quit) | He stopped to smoke. (pause to smoke) |
Common Verbs Followed by Gerunds
- admit
- avoid
- deny
- dislike
- enjoy
- finish
- imagine
- keep
- mind
- practice
- suggest
Example: “I suggest going to a different restaurant.”
Common Mistakes with Gerunds
- Wrong: I enjoy to cook.
Right: I enjoy cooking. - Wrong: He is good in play chess.
Right: He is good at playing chess. - Wrong: I look forward to meet you.
Right: I look forward to meeting you.
Practice Sentences
Fill in the blanks with the correct gerund form:
- She enjoys __________ (dance) at parties.
- I’m interested in __________ (learn) Spanish.
- He suggested __________ (go) to the park.
- They admitted __________ (cheat) on the test.
- We’re looking forward to __________ (travel) this summer.
Gerunds in Real-Life English
- In job interviews: “I’m passionate about helping people.”
- In academic writing: “Understanding global economics is crucial for this field.”
- In daily conversation: “I can’t stand being late.”
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Conclusion
Gerunds are a powerful tool in English grammar, turning action words into nouns that function in many parts of a sentence. Whether you’re preparing for an exam or improving everyday speech, mastering gerunds will make your English sound smoother and more natural.
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