Gerunds can be described as a special type of noun. They are made from verbs and can have an object. Many gerunds end in –ing.
Present Active Present Passive
I like giving presents. I like being given presents.
I hate waking up early. I hate being woken up early
Here are some common uses of the gerund:
As the subject of the verb:
Swimming is good for you.
Smoking is a terrible habit.
Taking part in competitive sports is character forming for young children.
As the object of the verb:
I love swimming.
He’s trying to stop smoking.
I prefer Yoga to jogging.
After a preposition:
Most people will disagree with introducing liberal drug laws.
I’m keen on playing the piano.
She’s interested in acting.
Other phrases used with gerunds:
Spices are used for adding taste to food.
It’s no good complaining about the heat.
It’s useless trying to argue with him.
Please excuse my/me arriving late.
Some verbs are followed by a gerund:
Would you mind/Do you mind waiting for a few minutes?
We are looking forward to meeting your fiancée.
My mum is used to cooking for a large number of people.
Here are some verbs often followed by a gerund:
Admit – avoid – burst out – consider – delay – deny – detest – dislike – enjoy – finish – give up – can’t help – imagine – keep on – postpone – practise – prevent – put off – recommend – can’t stand – stop
Lesson by Tristan, teacher at EC Malta English school
