Overview
A gerund phrase consists of a gerund (verb + -ing acting as a noun) and any complements or modifiers. Examples: swimming every morning, writing a detailed report, being told what to do. Gerund phrases function as subjects (Swimming every day is healthy), objects (She enjoys cooking Thai food), or complements in sentences.
What Is a Gerund Phrase?
- structureGerund (-ing form) + any complements or modifiers.
- subjectSwimming every morning keeps her fit.
- objectShe enjoys reading mystery novels.
- prep. obj.He is good at solving complex problems.
- complementHer hobby is painting watercolours.
Common Positions
- as subjectWorking late is tiring.
- after verbI avoid making mistakes.
- after prep.She left without saying goodbye.
- after possess.I appreciate your helping me.
- as complementThe goal is finishing on time.
Gerund vs Infinitive
- enjoy/avoid/suggest → always gerund: She suggested leaving.
- want/decide/hope → always infinitive: She decided to leave.
- ❌ I enjoy to swim → ✅ I enjoy swimming.
- ❌ She suggested to go → ✅ She suggested going.
When to use
As Subject
Writing a clear report takes practice.
After Preposition
She is interested in learning Japanese.
After Certain Verbs
He kept asking the same question.
As Complement
The hardest part was staying focused.