What is a gerund and how to use it?

What is a Gerund? 

Gerunds are verb forms ending with -ING

They are not a verb, an adjective; rather, they are verbal forms that function as a noun in the sentence.

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Gerund: Base verb+ING 

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Usage: We use Gerund: 

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1- Subjects in a sentence:

• We use Gerunds as subjects to start a sentence:

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Tip: Whether you want to be sure you have a correct sentence, you can replace gerund by a noun. If it still makes sense, it's correct.  

• Physical exercise is a wonderful activity. 
• Herbal bath is a magical stress-reliever.

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2- After certain verbs: Verbs + Gerund

• After the verbs below, we always use Gerund:

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TIP: After these verbs, remember that the Gerund can be followed by a noun or another Gerund, depending on the context and the desired meaning. 

Example: I recommend you practicing speaking English every day. 

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3- After prepositions: 

We usually use gerund after preposition to indicate the relationship between two parts of the sentences. 

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Tip: Here's a useful tip to remember when to use the gerund after preposition: Associate each preposition with a specific action or activity.  

Follow the examples below: 

• You can improve your English skills by practicing at least 30 minutes per day.
• Without studying, it's hard to pass the exam.

Writing tip: 

When a sentence starts with a preposition followed by gerund, it's common to use a comma. This helps to separate the introductory part from the main clause. This is a common practice to ensure clarity and fluency in written communication.

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4- After some verbs (or idiomatic expression) use Gerund or Infinitive (with no change in meaning:

After these verbs or idiomatic expressions, it is acceptable to use either Gerund or Infinitive.

Examples: 

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Definition: Can't stand and Can't bear   

Both are idiomatic expressions in English that mean to not tolerate something or someone, to feel a strong dislike or aversion.

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5- After some verbs use Gerund or Infinitive with change in meaning:

We need to be careful about what exactly we would like to tell our listener. These verbs can be used with a different meaning when used with gerund and another meaning when used with infinitives. 

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Remember+Gerund:

When you are an adult, and you have a lot of memories about your childhood, or about any other past action or experience, you can say: 

• I remember riding a bike without support when I was very young!

       Or  

• We remember eating a lot of cookies during our childhood. 

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Remember+infinitive:

Use this format when you really can't forget to do something. 

• All employees must remember to wear helmets to work. 
• The entire company has to remember to join at noon for the meeting. 

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Try+Gerund 

When you keep trying to deal with a tough or difficult situation, hoping to find the best solution or overcome it. 

• Leticia is decided to try developing new software solutions to address the company's productivity challenges.

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Try+infinitive:

When you attempt to do something, even when you know it is very difficult.

• It's very hard for Priscila to go to the gym. But she tries to work out every day.
• Guilherme tried to buy flight tickets to Dubai, but they were sold out. 

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Stop + Gerund: 

Ceasing an action, you know you will not practice any more. 

• I quit smoking;
• I stopped drinking alcoholic beverages.   

Stop + Infinitive:

When you interrupt an action because you want to do another action. 

• Victor Roncolato studied all afternoon, then stopped to have a snack.
• Barbara walked all the way back home, but she did stop to rest.