Unit 6.2
Gerunds as Subjects
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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 subject of the sentence.
Form
When the gerund is a noun, it can be the subject of the action described by the verb.
It has this structure:
Subject [Gerund] + Verb + …
The most commonly used gerunds are: building, buying, living…
When it is used as the subject, the verb form is singular, conjugated as the third person singular, and it does not accept degree verbs
Example
- Building a career as an artist was one of her biggest goals.
- Buying a house is his dream.
- Living in the city centre can be stressful.
- Smoking cigarettes is bad for you.
- Writing a poem was harder than he expected.
- Listening to music is very relaxing.
- Sleeping is hard when your mind is full of thoughts.
Use
We can use gerunds as a singular noun, so it can be the subject 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, which has the form of a gerund, followed by a verb.
When it is used as the subject, the verb form is singular, conjugated as the third person singular, and it does not accept degree verbs.
For example:
— “Driving fast is dangerous.” = Gerund driving is used as the subject 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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