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The Functions of the Gerund in the Sentence
| The Gerundcan be used in different syntactic functions. A simple gerund occurs not seldom, but in most cases we find a complex gerund or a gerundial phrase, i.e. a gerund with one or several accompanying words. Besides it can be used as part of a predicative construction. | ||
| · I likedriving. (a simple gerund) · I likeplaying the piano. (a gerundial phrase) · I likeJohn’s (his) playing the piano. (part of a predicative construction) | ||
| 1. | The Gerund can be used in a sentence asa subject, an object(non-prepositional or prepositional), an attribute(in preposition and inpostposition)andan adverbial modifier of time, of reason, of manner, of attendant circumstances, of concession, of condition and of purpose. The Gerund can also be used as a predicative (part of a compound nominal predicate), as part of a compound verbal predicateand as part of a predicative construction. | |
| 2. | A gerund or a gerundial phrase may be used in a sentence with theintroductory it in the function of a subject. This usage is absolutely parallel to that of the Infinitive. | |
| · Growing roses is m y mother’s hobby. · John (‘s) coming tomorrow will make all the difference. · If you want me to help, it’sno goodbeating about the bush. | ||
| 3. | The Gerund is used in compound predicates of verbal and nominal types. | |
| 3.1. | The Gerund as a predicative (part of the compound nominal predicate) expresses either characterization or identity. In the latter case the predicate reveals the meaning of the subject. | |
| · The only way out was parting with him. · Her first thought was interviewing the man. | ||
| 3.2. | In combination with phasal verbs the Gerund forms part of a compound verbal predicate. The most common phasal verbs followed by the Gerund are: begin*, burst out, start*, cease, continue*, give up, go on, finish, keep on, leave off, stop. (The verbs marked by an asterisk may also be followed by the Infinitive.) | |
| · Again you start arguing. · On hearing the joke everyone burst out laughing. | ||
| 4. | When used as an attribute in preposition, the gerund imparts to the noun modified a special meaning: it says what the thing or person is intended for. E.g. a sleepingcar = a car which is intended for sleeping in. | |
| 5. | Here are some examples illustrating the use of the Gerund in other syntactic functions. | |
| · Housekeeping requires much time and lots of efforts. (subject) · It has been a pleasure showing you the sights of my native city. OR: · Showing you the sights of my native city has been a pleasure. · The problem issaving the time. (a predicative) · We began translating the article only yesterday. (part of a compound verbal predicate) · There is always something children like telling you about. (non-prepositional object) · He was thinking of asking a couple of questions. (prepositional object) · They travelled in a sleeping car. (an attributein preposition) · It seems that the idea of publishing this book appeals to him. (an attributein postposition) · On entering the office, he saw that his colleagues were unusually excited. (adverbial modifier of time) · We found ourselves in an embarrassing position through / because of coming to see them so early in the morning. (adverbial modifier of reason) · You can make your skirt tighter by taking in a little at the seams. (an adverbial modifier of manner) · She crossed the room without taking notice of the people present there. (adverbial modifier of attendant circumstances) · In spite of beinga very diligent pupil, this time he couldn’t cope with the task. (adverbial modifier of concession) · In case ofgetting a letter from them let her know about it. (adverbial modifier of condition) · He goes to expeditions for exploring the Arctic Ocean. (adverbial modifier of purpose) |
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