Unit 6.2
Gerunds as Complements
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Introduction
The gerund is a verb that functions as a noun referring to an action, a process or a state.
We can use gerund as the complement of the sentence.
Form
When the gerund is a noun, it can be the complement of the action described by the verb.
It has this structure:
Subject + Verb + Complement [Gerund = base form of the verb + ing] + …
The most commonly used gerunds are: going, observing, using…
It is used as a complement when the verb comes after a preposition.
Example
- I always dreamt of going abroad.
- He is good at observing people.
- They found the industrial district by using a map.
- Thank you for choosing me.
- She’s thinking about moving to Spain.
- They look forward to hearing from you.
Use
We can use gerunds as a singular noun, so it can be the complement of the sentence.
Summary
The –ing form is commonly used to create nouns and verbs. When used as a noun, it is considered a gerund. In this case, it can be used as the subject or complement of the sentence.
The structure is: we start with the subject followed by a verb and a complement, which has the form of a gerund.
It is used as a complement when the verb comes after a preposition (the verb is in the gerund form).
For example:
— “He is afraid of losing her.” = Gerund losing is used after a preposition of as the complement of the sentence.
Let’s revise this content within the {Form} section. Take a look at the {Example} section that shows its use within a context.
Exercises
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