What Is a Gerund?
A gerund is a verb form that ends in -ing and functions as a noun in a sentence. It might look like a verb, but it behaves like a thing—an activity, idea, or concept.
Gerund Rules (Quick Notes)
A gerund is made by adding -ing to a verb: run → running, swim → swimming.
Gerunds always act as nouns, not verbs.
They can serve as:
Subjects: Running is fun.
Objects: I enjoy running.
Subject complements: Her favorite activity is running.
Objects of prepositions: She’s interested in running.
Common mistake: Don’t confuse a gerund with a present participle.
Gerund = noun: Reading helps me relax.
Participle = adjective or verb: I am reading a book.
Practice Together
Directions: Identify the gerund(s) in each sentence and name how it’s used (subject, object, complement, or object of preposition).
Swimming helps me stay in shape.
My hobby is painting.
She enjoys dancing in the rain.
They talked about moving to the city.
Singing loudly annoys my brother.
Answer Key
Swimming – subject
Painting – subject complement
Dancing – object
Moving – object of preposition
Singing – subject