Post by Admin on Sept 26, 2021 13:22:52 GMT 7
A gerund is a verb that ends in -ing and functions as a noun. Since a gerund functions as a noun, it can be used as a subject or an object. For example, we can say:
Swimming is a form of exercise. It is in fact a good form of exercise.
You will notice that a gerund can be replaced by "it" and the sentence will still be grammatically correct. You need to be able to tell the difference between a gerund and a present participle (continuous tense). Both end with -ing. Remember a gerund is used as a noun, but a present participle functions as a verb. (A present participle can also act as an adjective or adverb, but I won't discuss this here.)
Examples:
Swimming is a form of exercise. It is in fact a good form of exercise.
You will notice that a gerund can be replaced by "it" and the sentence will still be grammatically correct. You need to be able to tell the difference between a gerund and a present participle (continuous tense). Both end with -ing. Remember a gerund is used as a noun, but a present participle functions as a verb. (A present participle can also act as an adjective or adverb, but I won't discuss this here.)
Examples:
| GERUND | PRESENT PARTICIPLE (Continuous Tense) |
| Smoking is harmful to our health. | The irresponsible man is smoking in front of his children. |
| The miser hates spending his own money. | How much are you spending on this tour? |
| Can you teach me swimming? | The dolphin is swimming towards the ball. |
| Asking questions is much easier than answering them. | Are you asking me to jump into the pool? |
| Climbing trees is forbidden in the park. | The monkey is climbing up the tree to escape from the dog. |