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Gerunds/Participles

Gerunds - a verb that is used as a noun

  • ends in -ing
  • has 6 functions
  • 1. Subject - Playing is fun. Staring at people is impolite. Completing this is my first priority.
  • 2. Predicate Nominative (predicate noun) - follows a linking verb and renames the subject; My hobby is webmastering. Your job is teaching.
  • 3. Direct Object - follows an action verb; I love racing. I hate reading. Do you enjoy taking notes? He likes fooling people.
  • 4. Indirect Object - must be used with a direct object; You should give listening your full attention. Give reading a chance.
  • 5. Object of a Preposition - follows a preposition and completes the prepositional phraseDon't you get tired of playing? What's the best profession besides teaching?
  • 6. Appositive - renames another nounHis job, protecting the innocent, requires 10 hour workdays.
Participles - a verb used as an adjective  
  • ends most commonly in -ing or -ed
  • should be placed close to the noun that it modifies
  • I like my martinis shaken, not stirred. The crying adult needed counseling.

Participial phrases - a phrase that includes a participle, modifying a noun  

  • Racing across the field, he scored the winning goal.
  • The boys, scared to death, tried to hide from the monster.
Subject: 
English
Subject X2: 
English

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