Gerund Phrase - Definition, Functions and Examples

Gerund Phrase - Definition and Functions

Gerund phrase is so common in English that each and every speaker of English uses gerund phrases in speaking and writing either knowingly or unknowingly. At intermediate level, you must master gerund phrase and its functions so as to improve both your writing and speaking skills. 

In this article, we've covered:

1. What is a gerund phrase?
2. Gerund Phrase Examples 
3. Functions of Gerund Phrase
4. Gerunds and Gerund Phrase Worksheet 

This article covers all you need to know about a gerund phrase at the intermediate level of English grammar. So, all we want from you is give it a full reading. Let's jump into the topic. 

What is a Gerund Phrase?

According to YourDictonary, a gerund phrase is " a verb that ends in "-ing" but functions as a noun in a sentence." 

Cambridge Dictionary defines gerund as " a word ending in "-ing" that is made from a verb and is used like a noun."

From the above-mentioned definitions, we learn that:

1. A gerund phrase is made from a verb.
2. A gerund phrase ends in -ing. 
3. A gerund phrase acts as a noun. 
4. A gerund phrase functions as a subject. 
5. A gerund phrase functions as an object.
6. A gerund phrase functions as an object of a preposition.
7. A gerund phrase functions as a subject complement.

Gerund Phrase Examples

(a) I like reading novels in my free time. 
(b) Swimming is the best exercise. 
(c) I'm not interested in having a word with you.

In example (a), reading novels is a gerund phrase that ends in -ing and acts as the object of the verb like. In example (b), swimming is a gerund phrase that acts as the subject of the sentence. In example (c), having a word is a gerund phrase that functions as the object of the preposition in. 

Functions of Gerund Phrase

As a gerund or gerund phrase functions as a noun, its functions are like those of a noun. In a sentence, a gerund or gerund phrase functions:

1. As a subject as in Swimming is the best practice. 
2. As a direct object as in I like reading novels.
3. As an indirect object as in I made speaking English compulsory for all. 
4. As an object of a preposition as in He's interested in talking to you. 
5. As a subject complement as in My pass time is reading novels.

Gerunds and Gerund Phrases Worksheet 

Use the appropriate form of verb-gerund or to-infinitive in the blank areas of the below given sentences. 

a. I avoid ___ mistakes. (to make, making)
b. She began ___ (crying, to cry)
c. I enjoy ___ essays in English. (writing, to write)
d. They suggest ___ that movie. (to watch, watching)
e. Try ___ English. (to speak or speaking)
f. Would you mind ____ the door? (to open, opening)
Answer keys: a. making b. to cry c. writing d. watching e. to speak f. opening

FAQs - Gerund Phrase 

What is the definition of a gerund phrase?

According to YourDictonary, a gerund phrase is " a verb that ends in -ing but functions as a noun in a sentence." 

Cambridge Dictionary defines gerund as " a word ending in "-ing" that is made from a verb and is used like a noun."

Which phrase is a gerund phrase?

In the following examples, the italicized words are gerund phrases which function as an object, subject and object of a preposition respectively.

(a) I like reading novels in my free time. 
(b) Swimming is the best exercise. 
(c) I'm not interested in having a word with you.

Gerund Phrases Examples

a. I enjoy reading short stories. 
b. They avoid making mistakes in English. 
c. Would you mind opening the door?
d. I suggest watching that movie.
e. I'm not interested in talking to you.