Gerund phrases are verb forms ending in -ing that function as nouns in sentences. This lesson demonstrates how gerund phrases fill various sentence slots, particularly in subject and direct object positions. Notice how these phrases allow you to express actions as concepts or activities.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot
Managing deadlines improved performance during the project.
Handling customer complaints reduced stress at work.
Improving communication increased efficiency over time.
Following clear procedures prevented mistakes during training.
Solving complex problems built confidence in the team.
Working long hours affected morale last month.
Gerund Phrases in the DIRECT OBJECT slot
The manager encouraged improving communication during meetings.
She supported handling complaints professionally at work.
They discussed solving the problem quickly after lunch.
The trainer emphasized following safety procedures during training.
The team practiced using the new system last week.
Management promoted reducing unnecessary costs this year.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Extended Activities)
Mastering coding demands constant practice every single day.
Starting a business requires significant capital in the beginning.
Planting a garden brings immense joy during the spring months.
Learning a language opens many doors in today's global economy.
Baking a cake takes several hours on a busy weekend.
Writing a novel consumes much time during the winter break.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Workplace Context)
Working under pressure caused stress during the project.
Facing tight deadlines affected performance last week.
Working more carefully improved the final result.
Designing for efficiency reduced processing time.
Lacking clear instructions created confusion at work.
Focusing on short-term results limited long-term success.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Performance & Results)
Improving communication reduced errors during the project.
Meeting the deadline required working overtime last week.
Working under pressure strengthened teamwork over time.
Increasing productivity remained the main goal this year.
Facing rapid change forced adaptation this year.
Improving efficiency supported growth in the company.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (With Indirect Objects)
Managing deadlines gave the team confidence during the project.
Handling customer complaints gave employees valuable experience last year.
Improving communication gave the group better results over time.
Following clear procedures gave the staff peace of mind at work.
Solving complex problems gave the team a strong sense of achievement.
Working long hours gave employees little time for rest that week.
Gerund Phrases in the full DIRECT OBJECT (with prepositions)
The manager gave the team [training in handling complaints] yesterday.
She gave employees [practice in using the new system] last week.
They gave the staff [support for adjusting to the changes] during the transition.
The coach gave the players [experience in solving problems] before the match.
The company gave workers [guidance on improving performance] this year.
He gave the group [feedback on completing the task] after the session.