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
Reading books improved knowledge during the holidays.
Playing games reduced boredom at home.
Learning English increased confidence over time.
Following simple rules prevented accidents during play.
Helping friends built stronger relationships in school.
Watching movies affected sleep last night.
Gerund Phrases in the DIRECT OBJECT slot
The teacher encouraged learning new words during class.
She supported playing sports safely at school.
They discussed making healthy food quickly after school.
The coach emphasized following team rules during practice.
The friends practiced using the new bike last weekend.
The family promoted reducing screen time this month.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Extended Activities)
Learning to swim demands constant practice every single day.
Starting a hobby requires some materials in the beginning.
Planting flowers brings immense joy during the spring months.
Learning a language opens many doors in today's global world.
Baking cookies takes several hours on a busy weekend.
Writing a story consumes much time during the summer break.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Workplace Context)
Playing under rain caused fun during the game.
Facing new challenges affected enjoyment last week.
Playing more carefully improved the final score.
Planning for fun reduced waiting time.
Lacking clear plans created confusion at the party.
Focusing on short games limited long-term fun.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (Performance & Results)
Practicing speaking reduced mistakes during the conversation.
Finishing homework required staying up late last night.
Playing in a team strengthened friendships over time.
Increasing reading time remained the main goal this year.
Facing new words forced learning this month.
Improving listening supported understanding in class.
Gerund Phrases in the SUBJECT slot (With Indirect Objects)
Reading stories gave the children excitement during the evening.
Helping neighbors gave people good feelings last year.
Sharing toys gave the kids better playtime over time.
Following recipes gave the family peace of mind in the kitchen.
Making crafts gave the group a strong sense of creativity.
Watching TV gave friends little time for talk that evening.
Gerund Phrases in the full DIRECT OBJECT (with prepositions)
The teacher gave the students [lessons in speaking English] yesterday.
She gave children [practice in riding a bike] last week.
They gave the friends [support for learning new games] during the holidays.
The parent gave the kids [experience in cooking simple food] before dinner.
The school gave students [guidance on choosing hobbies] this year.
He gave the class [feedback on drawing pictures] after the lesson.