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Understanding Gerunds in English
A gerund is a special kind of word that looks like a verb but acts like a noun. It is made by adding 'ing' to the end of a verb. Gerunds can be used in different ways in a sentence.
How to Use Gerunds
Important Points
Gerunds can be the subject of a sentence.
Gerunds can be the object of a verb.
Gerunds can be the object of a preposition.
Gerunds can follow certain verbs.
Gerunds as Subjects
When a gerund is the subject, it is the main thing the sentence is about. It tells what is happening or what is important.
Examples
Running is fun.
Swimming makes me happy.
Gerunds as Objects
Gerunds can also be the object of a verb. This means the gerund is receiving the action of the verb.
Examples
I enjoy reading.
She loves painting.
Gerunds After Prepositions
When a gerund follows a preposition, it acts as the object of the preposition.
Examples
He is good at drawing.
They talked about traveling.
Gerunds After Certain Verbs
Some verbs are followed by gerunds. These verbs include 'enjoy', 'avoid', 'consider', and many more.
Examples
She avoids eating junk food.
They considered moving to a new city.
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