Gerund (verb + -ing)
The gerund is the -ing form of a verb. It can be affirmative (e.g. doing) or negative (e.g. not doing).
We use the gerund in the following situations:
1. As the subject of a sentence
When we use a verb as the subject of a sentence, we use its -ing form.
Learning a new language takes time.
Not getting enough sleep is bad for your health.
2. After the verb "be"
We can use a gerund after the verb "be" to describe an activity or say what something involves.
Her favorite activity is reading books.
His biggest problem was finding a good job.
3. After some verbs
After certain verbs, such as enjoy, don't mind, finish, avoid, suggest, spend and feel like, we use the gerund when another verb follows.
She enjoys cooking for her family.
He avoids talking about his problems.
4. After prepositions
When a preposition is followed by a verb, we use the -ing form of that verb.
I'm interested in learning Spanish.
She's good at playing the piano.
Exercises
Complete the sentences with an affirmative or negative gerund. Use the verbs in the box.understand | travel | work | improve | get | make | spend | know
1.She is very good at ______ delicious cakes.
She is very good at making delicious cakes.
2.______ in a foreign country can help you learn a new language.
Traveling in a foreign country can help you learn a new language.
3.______ enough exercise is bad for your health.
Not getting enough exercise is bad for your health.
4.My father has finally finished ______ in the garden.
My father has finally finished working in the garden.
5.______ other people's feelings can cause problems.
Not understanding other people's feelings can cause problems.
6.I don't mind ______ the answers to all the questions. It's just natural.
I don't mind not knowing the answers to all the questions. It's just natural.
7.He enjoys ______ time with his friends.
He enjoys spending time with his friends.
8.My main goal is ______ my English.
My main goal is improving my English.