A gerund is a verb in its ‘ing’ (present participle), any action verb can be made into a gerund. For example running, swimming, cooking.

We use the gerund (verb + ing):

1) when the verb is a noun, for example the subject of a sentence.

Examples:

- Learning a new language is difficult.

- Swimming is a relaxing sport.

- Climbing that tree was not a good idea.

2) after the following verbs:

- Appreciate - consider - escape - miss - risk - avoid - deny - finish - practice - start - can’t help - dislike - imagine - quit - suggest - complete - enjoy - mind - recall.

Examples:

- He can’t help eating the chocolates on the table.

- I want to quit smoking.

- She suggested using the Internet to resolve our questions.

3) after prepositions

Examples:

I’m going to thank him for finding my watch.

She likes to sit at the park without thinking about work.

They are talking about going to the zoo.

Let’s practice!

Fill in the blank with one of the following verbs:

staying   -   catching    -   raining   -   thinking   -   going   -   going   -   watching   -   pretending   -   meeting   -   telling

1.) We really enjoyed ________________________ the outdoor concert.

2.) There was one problem, however. It started ________________________ .

3.) We considered ________________________ home early

4.) Naturally, we risked ________________________ a cold by ________________________ out there in the rain, but it was worth it

5.) David can never resist ________________________ to the stadium to see the Knicks play.

6.) Of course, ________________________ to be ill to avoid ________________________ to work was not a good idea. 

7.) Without ________________________ about the consequences, he took the bus to the stadium. 

8.) Imagine ________________________ your boss after ________________________ him you have a fever!

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