Gerund

usgb/ˈdʒerənd/
noun

A form of a verb used as a noun. In English, it normally ends with -ing.

In the sentence 'Swimming is fun', 'swimming' is a gerund.
Visual representation of "gerund" - A form of a verb used as a noun. In English, it normally ends with -ing.

Often appears as...

  • function of gerund
  • gerund phrase

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "gerund"
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Avoid Confusion

Don't confuse gerunds with present participles, both end in -ing but serve different purposes.

Illustration for Avoid Confusion
I am swimming (present participle), versus Swimming is relaxing (gerund).
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Not Always Actions

While gerunds are verb-based, they don't always describe an action. Sometimes they name activities or ideas.

Illustration for Not Always Actions
In 'Thinking can be hard,' 'thinking' refers to an idea, not an action.
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Versatility

Gerunds can act as subjects, objects, or complements, giving them versatile roles in sentences.

Illustration for Versatility
Eating is necessary (subject), I enjoy eating (object).
Visual representation of the word "Gerund"

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