Verbs in the -ing can be a gerund (I like fishing) or a present participle (I am going). It is important to understand that they are different. A gerund is similar to a noun, it is commonly used after certain verbs, instead of a noun, and after prepositions.

✅ Use 1: After certain verbs

Example: I enjoy reading.

The first verb can be conjugated in any tense. You can say:

- I’m enjoying reading.    -   present continuous

- You enjoyed reading.   -   simple past

- He was enjoying reading.   -   past continuous

- She has enjoyed reading.    -   present perfect simple

- We will enjoy reading.   -   simple future

- They have been enjoying reading.   -   present perfect continuous

The second verb is always in the gerund form.

To make a negative sentence, simply put the appropriate conjugation of the words do not before the first verb:

Ex: I do not enjoy reading. 

✅ Use 2: Instead of a noun

Example: Smoking isn’t allowed here.

✅ Use 3: After prepositions

Example: I drink a cup of coffee before leaving for work. We can also use a gerund after the preposition in phrasal verbs:

Example: I gave up smoking.

Below are some of the most common verbs that are often followed by a gerund:

Let’s practice!

Put the verb into the correct form. Use either a gerund or to + infinitive.

1. I dislike _______________ (wait).

2. He asked _______________ (come) with us.

3. I promise _______________ (help) you tomorrow.

4. She agreed _______________ (bring) the pudding.

5. I don’t recommend _______________ (take) the bus, it takes forever!

6. We hope _______________ (visit) Amsterdam next month.

7. She suggested _______________ (go) to the museum.

8. They plan _______________ (start) college in the autumn.

9. I don’t want _______________ (leave) yet.

10. She delayed _______________ (get) out of bed.

11. He demanded _______________ (speak) to the manager.

12. I offered _______________ (help).

13. I miss _______________ (go) to the beach.

14. We postponed _______________ (do) our homework.

15. I’d hate _______________ (arrive) too late.

16. She admitted _______________ (steal) the money.

17. I chose _______________ (work) here.

18. She waited _______________ (buy) a drink.

19. I really appreciate _______________ (be) on vacation.

20. I couldn’t help _______________ (laugh).

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We hope this lesson has been helpful for you.

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