Unit 6.2
Gerunds vs Present Participles
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Introduction
The gerund is a verb that functions as a noun referring to an action, a process or a state.
The present participle is a form of a verb used as a verb in continuous tenses, an adverb or an adjective.
Form
We form gerunds and present participles in the same way: we add –ing to the base form of the verb.
Example
Gerund:
- Building a tree house is very fun.
- Dancing is my favorite activity.
- Being happy is more important than appearing happy.
- Her living in the shopping district makes it easier for us to see her.
Present participle:
- I was slowly building the house.
- A wonderful rainbow appeared behind the police station, leaving behind different colours.
- This area is frightening.
- Your dress is amazing.
Use
We use gerunds as regular nouns. They are always singular, so they always take a singular verb.
We use present participles as regular adjectives or verbs.
Summary
The –ing form is commonly used to create both nouns and verbs. When used as a noun it is considered a gerund, whereas when used as a verb, adverb or adjective we refer to it as a present participle.
For example:
— “Waking up early can be hard.” = Waking up is a gerund and is used as a noun.
— “The sun was rising.” = Rising is a present participle and is used as a verb.
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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