In this episode we are going to talk about “Verbs Followed by Gerund”. As we may already know, some verbs must be followed by to infinitive. And, some others can be followed by gerund or to infinitive. But, this time we are going to focus only on the verbs that must be followed by gerund. Let’s begin the discussion with the meaning or definition of gerund.

A gerund is a noun made by adding “ing” at the end of the verb. So, a gerund is a noun. But the noun is from a verb. Let’s see the following examples :

Exercise I

1. She doesn’t enjoy ………..letters.
2. Stop ………… too much noise.
3. He finally admitted ……. his car carelessly.
4. Have you finished ……….. your newspaper?
5. Avoid ………. cigarettes.  It’s not good for your lungs.
6. The doctor suggested …. a lot of fruit and vegetables.
7. I don’t mind ….. after the kids while you are away.
8. Have you finished ……. your homework, Honey?
9. I postponed …… the smartphone because I haven’t got enough money.
10. The manager has considered ….. him to be a supervisor.

Exercise II

Answer the following questions. Try to use gerund in your sentences.

1. Have you ever postponed doing something until you forgot to do it? Can you describe it.
2. Do you have something you want to stop doing but you’ve always failed to do it? Please tell us about it.
3. Have you ever denied doing something wrong? What was it?
4. What was the latest thing you regretted doing? Why?
5. What is the activity you mostly imagine doing? Why?

Answers