10 Examples of Gerund Sentences for Quick Learning.

Gerunds are an essential part of English grammar, often used without most learners realizing their significance. A gerund is the noun form of a verb, created by adding -ing to the base form of the verb. Although it looks like a verb, it functions as a noun in a sentence. This versatile structure is used in various ways, including as subjects, objects, and complements.

In this article, we will explore 10 well-explained examples of gerund sentences, addressing gaps commonly found in other articles. We will also break down the rules usages, and provide tips on forming gerunds, making this article a go-to guide for students, teachers, and language enthusiasts.

What is a Gerund?

A gerund is a verb that functions as a noun by adding -ing to its base form. While it retains some characteristics of a verb, such as the ability to take an object or modifier, its main role in a sentence is that of a noun.

Key Features of Gerunds:

Form: Verb + -ing (e.g., swimming, reading, eating).

Function: Acts as a noun.

Usage: Can be the subject, object, complement, or object of a preposition.

Common Misconception: Gerund vs. Present Participle

A common area of confusion is the difference between gerunds and present participles. Both end in -ing, but they serve different roles in sentences. A gerund acts as a noun, while a present participle functions as part of a continuous verb tense or an adjective.

Example:

Gerund: Running is my favorite activity. (Running is a noun here).

Present Participle: I am running a marathon. (Running is part of the verb in continuous tense).

How to Form Gerunds

Gerunds are formed by simply adding -ing to the base form of a verb. However, certain verbs require specific changes to their spelling when converting them into gerunds.

Rules for Forming Gerunds:

• Basic Verbs: Just add -ing (e.g., talk → talking, walk → walking).
• Verbs Ending in -e: Drop the -e and add -ing (e.g., write → writing).
• Verbs Ending in -ie: Replace -ie with -y and add -ing (e.g., die → dying).
• Monosyllabic Verbs with Consonant-Vowel-Consonant Pattern: Double the final consonant before adding -ing (e.g., run → running).

Functions of Gerunds in Sentences

Gerunds are incredibly versatile and can serve multiple roles in a sentence. Let’s explore their functions with examples.

Gerund as the Subject

Gerunds can act as the subject of a sentence. The subject is the part of the sentence that acts as the verb.

Example:
Swimming is a great workout.

Gerund as the Direct Object

A gerund can be the object of a verb, receiving the action of the verb.

Example:
She enjoys reading.

Gerund as the Indirect Object

A gerund can act as an indirect object, which receives the direct object.

Example:
He gave running a second chance.

Gerund as the Subject Complement

A subject complement follows a linking verb and gives more information about the subject.

Example:
Her favorite activity is painting.

Gerund as the Object of a Preposition

Gerunds frequently appear after prepositions.

Example:
She is interested in learning.

Common Mistakes with Gerunds:

While gerunds are fairly straightforward, there are common mistakes learners often make when using them. Below, we’ll address a few of these common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Confusing Gerunds with Infinitives:

Many learners struggle to choose between using a gerund or an infinitive after certain verbs. Both gerunds and infinitives can act as nouns, but they are not interchangeable. Some verbs prefer gerunds, while others require infinitives.

• Gerund Example: I enjoy swimming.
• Infinitive Example: I want to swim.

Forgetting to Use a Gerund After Prepositions:

One of the most common errors is failing to use a gerund after a preposition. In English, when a verb follows a preposition, it must be in gerund form.

• Incorrect: She’s interested in learn French.
• Correct: She’s interested in learning French.

Misidentifying Gerund Phrases

Sometimes, people confuse gerund phrases with participial phrases or treat gerunds like adjectives. Remember, a gerund phrase functions as a noun and can act as a subject, object, or complement.

10 Examples of Gerund Sentences:

Gerund as the Subject

Example:

         Reading helps improve vocabulary.

In this sentence, “reading” is the subject.

Gerund as the Direct Object

           She enjoys cooking Italian food.

  Here, “cooking” is the direct object of the verb “enjoys.”

Gerund as the Indirect Object

Example: I gave dancing another try.

In this case, “dancing” serves as the indirect object.

Gerund as the Subject Complement

Example: His favorite hobby is painting.

“Painting” complements the subject “hobby.”

Gerund as the Object of a Preposition

Example: He’s tired of waiting for the bus.

“Waiting” is the object of the preposition “of.”

Gerund in a Compound Sentence

Example: Jogging every morning and eating healthy are good habits.

Both “jogging” and “eating” are subjects connected by the conjunction “and.”

Gerund as the Object of a Verb + Preposition

Example: They are thinking about traveling abroad next year.

“Traveling” follows the verb-preposition combination “thinking about.”

Gerund in a Gerund Phrase

Example: Reading novels while commuting keeps me entertained.

“Reading novels” is a gerund phrase acting as the subject of the sentence.

Gerund as a Complement to an Infinitive

Example: My goal is to improve by practicing daily.

“Practicing” functions as a complement to the infinitive “to improve.”

Gerund as the Object of a Possessive Pronoun

Example: I appreciate your helping me with the project.

“Helping” acts as the object of the possessive pronoun “your.”

Avoiding Common Mistakes with Gerunds

Understanding and using gerunds can be tricky, and there are a few common pitfalls that learners should be aware of. Below are some common mistakes along with explanations on how to avoid them.

Confusing Gerunds with Infinitives

One of the most frequent mistakes is using an infinitive instead of a gerund, or vice versa, after certain verbs. While both gerunds and infinitives can act as nouns, they are used differently depending on the main verb in the sentence.

• Gerund Example: I enjoy swimming.
• Infinitive Example: I hope to swim tomorrow.

Tip: Some verbs are followed by gerunds (e.g., enjoy, avoid, consider), while others are followed by infinitives (e.g., decide, want, hope). Learn which verbs take gerunds and which take infinitives.

Forgetting the Gerund after Prepositions

Another common mistake is using a base verb instead of a gerund after prepositions. In English, after a preposition (e.g., in, on, about, of), the verb must be in gerund form.

• Incorrect: She’s interested in learn French.
• Correct: She’s interested in learning French.

Tip: Always follow prepositions with gerunds, not base forms or infinitives.

Misidentifying Present Participles as Gerunds

Gerunds and present participles can look identical since they both end in -ing, but they function differently. A gerund acts as a noun, while a present participle typically functions as a verb or adjective.

Gerund Example: Running is a great way to stay fit. (Running is the subject here).

Present Participle Example: She is running in the park. (Running is part of the verb tense here).

Tip: Ask yourself if the -ing word is acting as a noun (gerund) or describing an ongoing action (participle).

10 Examples of Gerund Sentences in Detail

Gerund as the Subject

Example: Swimming improves overall health.

In this sentence, “swimming” is the subject, performing the action of improving health.

Gerund as the Direct Object

Example: She enjoys painting landscapes.

Here, “painting” is the direct object of the verb “enjoys,” telling us what she enjoys doing.

Gerund as the Indirect Object

Example: He gave running another try.

In this sentence, “running” is the indirect object, showing what received the action.

Gerund as the Subject Complement

Example: His passion is writing poetry.

“Writing” functions as the subject complement, providing more information about his passion.

Gerund as the Object of a Preposition

Example: She’s excited about traveling next summer.

Here, “traveling” is the object of the preposition “about,” following the rule that prepositions are followed by gerunds.

Gerund in a Compound Subject

Example: Jogging every morning and eating healthy food are part of my routine.

Both “jogging” and “eating” act as subjects of the sentence, showing how gerunds can appear together as compound subjects.

Gerund after a Verb + Preposition Combination

Example: He’s thinking about starting his own business.

In this case, “starting” is used after the verb-preposition combination “thinking about,” a common gerund construction.

Gerund in a Gerund Phrase

Example: Studying hard will help you succeed.

“Studying hard” is a gerund phrase acting as the subject of the sentence, showing a more complex use of gerunds.

Gerund as a Complement to an Infinitive

Example: My goal is to improve by practicing daily.

“Practicing” complements the infinitive “to improve,” explaining how gerunds can work in conjunction with infinitives.

Gerund as the Object of a Possessive Pronoun

Example: I appreciate your helping me with the project.

“Helping” serves as the object of the possessive pronoun “your,” demonstrating another nuanced use of gerunds.

Gerund Phrases: Expanding the Concept

A gerund phrase consists of a gerund along with its modifiers, objects, or complements. It functions as a noun and can play various roles in a sentence, just like a simple gerund.

Example of a Gerund Phrase:

Phrase: Running every morning keeps him healthy.

Here, the gerund phrase “running every morning” acts as the subject of the sentence.

Gerund phrases can be more complex than simple gerunds, but they are still easy to identify once you recognize the -ing verb acting as a noun.

Components of a Gerund Phrase:

• Gerund: The base of the phrase (e.g., jogging).
• Object or Modifier: These elements add more detail to the gerund (e.g., jogging in the park).
• Complete Phrase: Together, these parts create a full noun phrase (e.g., jogging in the park every day).

More Examples of Gerund Phrases:

• Playing the piano is her greatest joy. (Gerund phrase as the subject).
• He enjoys writing poetry in his free time. (Gerund phrase as the direct object).
• She is passionate about helping others. (Gerund phrase as the object of a preposition).

Common Verbs Followed by Gerunds

Certain verbs in English are often followed by gerunds rather than infinitives. Knowing these verbs helps in constructing grammatically correct sentences.

Here are some common verbs followed by gerunds:

• Enjoy: She enjoys swimming.
• Avoid: We avoid talking about politics.
• Consider: He considered moving to a new city.
• Keep: They keep working despite the difficulties.
• Practice: She practices dancing every day.

Table: Verbs Commonly Followed by Gerunds

Verb	Example Sentence
Avoid	He avoids eating junk food.
Consider	They considered going on a vacation.
Enjoy	I enjoy reading mystery novels.
Keep	She keeps trying despite the setbacks.
Practice	The athlete practices running every morning.

Gerunds After Prepositions

Gerunds frequently follow prepositions. In English, verbs that come directly after prepositions must always be in gerund form, never in the base form or infinitive.

Examples:

• She’s afraid of flying.
• He apologized for being late.
• They succeeded in solving the puzzle.

Tip: Always use a gerund after prepositions in a sentence. This is a strict grammatical rule, so it’s important to remember.

Gerunds in Everyday Speech:

Gerunds are not just a grammatical concept; they are used frequently in everyday language. Whether in casual conversation, writing, or formal speech, gerunds help us describe actions, hobbies, and more. By mastering gerunds, you will improve both your spoken and written English.

Examples of Gerunds in Daily Life:

• Cooking is my favorite hobby. (Subject)
• She enjoys running in the park. (Direct object)
• He’s thinking about changing his job. (Object of a preposition)
• Playing video games is a great way to relax. (Subject)
• They avoided talking about politics at the party. (Direct object)
• Verbs That Can Take Both Gerunds and Infinitives

Some verbs can be followed by both a gerund and an infinitive, but with a change in meaning. This can be confusing for learners, so let’s break down a few examples where the choice of gerund or infinitive affects the meaning.

Examples of Verbs That Take Both Gerunds and Infinitives:

• Stop:
• Gerund: I stopped smoking. (I quit smoking).
• Infinitive: I stopped to smoke. (I stopped what I was doing to have a cigarette).
• Remember:
• Gerund: I remember meeting her last year. (I recall the event).
• Infinitive: Remember to meet her tomorrow. (Don’t forget to meet her).
• Try:
• Gerund: Try exercising to relieve stress. (Experiment with exercising).
• Infinitive: I tried to exercise, but I was too tired. (Made an effort to exercise).

Tip: Pay attention to the context when choosing between a gerund and an infinitive, as it can change the meaning of the sentence entirely.

Using “Go” + Gerund to Talk About Activities

In English, when talking about leisure or sporting activities, we often use the verb go followed by a gerund. This is a common and useful structure, particularly when describing hobbies or actions involving physical activities.

Examples of “Go” + Gerund:

• We go swimming every weekend.
• They plan to go hiking next summer.
• I love to go fishing with my family.
• Let’s go jogging in the park later.
• He’s going to go skiing in the mountains next winter.

Gerunds vs. Infinitives: A Quick Comparison

As we’ve discussed, gerunds and infinitives can sometimes be used interchangeably, but there are key differences between the two. Let’s summarize when to use gerunds and when to use infinitives in this handy table.

Use Gerunds	Use Infinitives
After certain verbs: enjoy, avoid, etc.	After certain verbs: decide, want, need, etc.
After prepositions: in, on, about, etc.	After adjectives: happy, excited, etc.
As the subject or object of a sentence	To express purpose or intention

Examples:

• Gerund: She enjoys dancing.
• Infinitive: He wants to dance.

To wrap up, gerunds are an incredibly useful part of English grammar. They allow us to describe actions in a concise, effective way and can be used in various roles within a sentence. Whether acting as the subject, object, or complement, gerunds help make language more fluid and dynamic.

Here’s a recap of key points we covered for you:

Gerunds are formed by adding -ing to verbs and function as nouns.

They can act as subjects, objects, complements, or the object of a preposition.

Gerunds can be combined with objects and modifiers to form gerund phrases.

Some verbs take gerunds, while others take infinitives; in some cases, using either changes the meaning of the sentence.

Understanding “10 Examples of Gerund Sentences” helps learners grasp how verbs can function as nouns. This knowledge benefits kids, students, teachers, and mothers by making sentence construction clearer and more practical. By learning these examples, readers can improve their grammar skills and easily apply gerunds in daily communication.

FAQ

What is a gerund?

It may be defined as a gerund is a verb plus “-ing” that works as a noun. It can be the subject or object in a sentence. Examples include “running” or “swimming.”

How do you use gerunds in sentences?

Gerunds act like nouns. For example, “Swimming is fun” uses “swimming” as the subject of the sentence.

Can a gerund be an object?

Yes, gerunds can be objects. For instance, “I enjoy swimming,” where “swimming” is the object of the verb “enjoy.”

 What is an example of a gerund used as a subject?

In “Running is good exercise,” the gerund “running” is used as the subject.

How is a gerund different from a verb?

While both end in “-ing,” a gerund functions as a noun, whereas a verb describes an action. For example, “I am running” uses “running” as a verb.

Can a gerund be part of a phrase?

Yes, gerunds can form gerund phrases like “running in the park.” The entire phrase acts as a noun.

What is a common mistake when using gerunds?

A common mistake is confusing gerunds with present participles. Gerunds act as nouns, while participles act as verbs or adjectives.

How do gerunds work with prepositions?

Gerunds often follow prepositions. For example, “I am interested in learning” uses “learning” after the preposition “in.”

Can gerunds follow possessive pronouns?

Yes, gerunds can follow possessive pronouns like “my” or “his.” For example, “His singing was amazing.”

How do gerunds function with other verbs?

Gerunds can follow certain verbs like “enjoy” or “consider.” For example, “I enjoy reading” uses “reading” as the object of the verb “enjoy.”

Exercises:

Rule 1: Gerunds after prepositions

Incorrect: She is good in play tennis.

Correct: She is good at playing tennis.

Incorrect: He is bad at cook.

Correct: He is bad at cooking.

Incorrect: She is interested for sing.

Correct: She is interested in singing.

Incorrect: He is afraid of fail the test.

Correct: He is afraid of failing the test.

Incorrect: They talked about to swim.

Correct: They talked about swimming.

Incorrect: We are excited about to travel.

Correct: We are excited about traveling.

Rule 2: Gerunds as subjects

Incorrect: To read books is fun.

Correct: Reading books is fun.

Incorrect: To cook is enjoyable.

Correct: Cooking is enjoyable.

Incorrect: To swim is great exercise.

Correct: Swimming is great exercise.

Incorrect: To dance is fun for me.

Correct: Dancing is fun for me.

Incorrect: To hike is my hobby.

Correct: Hiking is my hobby.

Incorrect: To sing is her passion.

Correct: Singing is her passion.

Rule 3: Gerunds after certain verbs

Incorrect: I enjoy to read books.

Correct: I enjoy reading books.

Incorrect: I love to swim.

Correct: I love swimming.

Incorrect: He dislikes to run.

Correct: He dislikes running.

Incorrect: We started to cook dinner.

Correct: We started cooking dinner.

Incorrect: She quit to play soccer.

Correct: She quit playing soccer.

Incorrect: They avoided to talk.

Correct: They avoided talking.

Rule 4: Gerunds after expressions of time

Incorrect: Before to eat, wash your hands.

Correct: Before eating, wash your hands.

Incorrect: After to finish, let’s rest.

Correct: After finishing, let’s rest.

Incorrect: He stretches before to run.

Correct: He stretches before running.

Incorrect: After to play, clean up.

Correct: After playing, clean up.

Incorrect: She left before to say goodbye.

Correct: She left before saying goodbye.

Incorrect: He went home after to study.

Correct: He went home after studying.

Rule 5: Negative gerunds

Incorrect: Not to listen is bad.

Correct: Not listening is bad.

Incorrect: Not to finish the project was a mistake.

Correct: Not finishing the project was a mistake.

Incorrect: Not to clean is lazy.

Correct: Not cleaning is lazy.

Incorrect: Not to talk is rude.

Correct: Not talking is rude.

Incorrect: Not to study caused the failure.

Correct: Not studying caused the failure.

Incorrect: Not to apologize was wrong.

Correct: Not apologizing was wrong.

Rule 6: Gerunds as objects of verbs

Incorrect: He enjoys to play soccer.

Correct: He enjoys playing soccer.

Incorrect: She avoids to eat meat.

Correct: She avoids eating meat.

Incorrect: We consider to go abroad.

Correct: We consider going abroad.

Incorrect: They suggest to meet tomorrow.

Correct: They suggest meeting tomorrow.

Incorrect: He recommends to start early.

Correct: He recommends starting early.

Incorrect: They began to discuss the problem.

Correct: They began discussing the problem.

Rule 7: Changing infinitive to gerund

Incorrect: They planned to go shopping.

Correct: They planned going shopping.

Incorrect: She started to learn French.

Correct: She started learning French.

Incorrect: He stopped to talk to her.

Correct: He stopped talking to her.

Incorrect: We finished to clean the house.

Correct: We finished cleaning the house.

Incorrect: They considered to buy a car.

Correct: They considered buying a car.

Incorrect: I miss to travel.

Correct: I miss traveling.

Rule 8: Gerunds after “without”

Incorrect: He left without to say goodbye.

Correct: He left without saying goodbye.

Incorrect: She spoke without to think.

Correct: She spoke without thinking.

Incorrect: He worked without to rest.

Correct: He worked without resting.

Incorrect: They left without to tell us.

Correct: They left without telling us.

Incorrect: He ate without to wash his hands.

Correct: He ate without washing his hands.

Incorrect: She left without to pack.

Correct: She left without packing.

Rule 9: Gerunds after phrasal verbs

Incorrect: They gave up to play soccer.

Correct: They gave up playing soccer.

Incorrect: He looks forward to to travel.

Correct: He looks forward to traveling.

Incorrect: She took up to sing.

Correct: She took up singing.

Incorrect: He carried on to work.

Correct: He carried on working.

Incorrect: She kept on to dance.

Correct: She kept on dancing.

Incorrect: They ended up to win.

Correct: They ended up winning.

Rule 10: Changing meaning with gerunds

Incorrect: I remember to close the door.

Correct: I remember closing the door.

Incorrect: He stopped to smoke.

Correct: He stopped smoking.

Incorrect: She forgot to lock the door.

Correct: She forgot locking the door.

Incorrect: We tried to fix it.

Correct: We tried fixing it.

Incorrect: They remembered to visit the museum.

Correct: They remembered visiting the museum.

Incorrect: He began to write the letter.

Correct: He began writing the letter.

Rule 11: Gerunds after ‘by’

Incorrect: She solved the problem by to think carefully.

Correct: She solved the problem by thinking carefully.

Incorrect: He passed the exam by to study hard.

Correct: He passed the exam by studying hard.

Incorrect: They saved money by to eat at home.

Correct: They saved money by eating at home.

Incorrect: She succeeded by to work hard.

Correct: She succeeded by working hard.

Incorrect: He learned English by to practice daily.

Correct: He learned English by practicing daily.

Incorrect: She lost weight by to exercise.

Correct: She lost weight by exercising.

Rule 12: Gerunds after ‘be used to’

Incorrect: She is used to to work hard.

Correct: She is used to working hard.

Incorrect: He is used to to drive fast.

Correct: He is used to driving fast.

Incorrect: They are used to to eat late.

Correct: They are used to eating late.

Incorrect: We are used to to walk every day.

Correct: We are used to walking every day.

Incorrect: She is used to to cook dinner.

Correct: She is used to cooking dinner.

Incorrect: He is used to to stay up late.

Correct: He is used to staying up late.

Rule 13: Gerunds after ‘in spite of’

Incorrect: He succeeded in spite of to face challenges.

Correct: He succeeded in spite of facing challenges.

Incorrect: She passed the test in spite of to study less.

Correct: She passed the test in spite of studying less.

Incorrect: They won in spite of to be injured.

Correct: They won in spite of being injured.

Incorrect: He continued in spite of to feel tired.

Correct: He continued in spite of feeling tired.

Incorrect: We enjoyed the trip in spite of to rain.

Correct: We enjoyed the trip in spite of raining.

Incorrect: She succeeded in spite of to fail earlier.

Correct: She succeeded in spite of failing earlier.

Rule 14: Gerunds after ‘for’

Incorrect: He was famous for to play football.

Correct: He was famous for playing football.

Incorrect: She is known for to sing.

Correct: She is known for singing.

Incorrect: He was praised for to work hard.

Correct: He was praised for working hard.

Incorrect: They were punished for to cheat.

Correct: They were punished for cheating.

Incorrect: We were thanked for to help.

Correct: We were thanked for helping.

Incorrect: She was rewarded for to study well.

Correct: She was rewarded for studying well.

Rule 15: Gerunds after ‘without’

Incorrect: They left without to inform us.

Correct: They left without informing us.

Incorrect: He entered the room without to knock.

Correct: He entered the room without knocking.

Incorrect: She cooked without to follow the recipe.

Correct: She cooked without following the recipe.

Incorrect: They played without to practice.

Correct: They played without practicing.

Incorrect: He left without to say goodbye.

Correct: He left without saying goodbye.

Incorrect: She studied without to take notes.

Correct: She studied without taking notes.

Rule 16: Gerunds after ‘be interested in’

Incorrect: He is interested for learn swimming.

Correct: He is interested in learning swimming.

Incorrect: She is interested for play piano.

Correct: She is interested in playing piano.

Incorrect: They are interested for travel.

Correct: They are interested in traveling.

Incorrect: He is interested for read books.

Correct: He is interested in reading books.

Incorrect: We are interested for watch movies.

Correct: We are interested in watching movies.

Incorrect: She is interested for study history.

Correct: She is interested in studying history.

Rule 17: Changing negative to affirmative without changing meaning

Incorrect: He didn’t stop to smoke.

Correct: He continued smoking.

Incorrect: She didn’t quit to exercise.

Correct: She kept exercising.

Incorrect: He didn’t stop to argue.

Correct: He kept arguing.

Incorrect: They didn’t quit to fight.

Correct: They continued fighting.

Incorrect: He didn’t stop to run.

Correct: He continued running.

Incorrect: We didn’t quit to work.

Correct: We kept working.

Rule 18: Gerunds after ‘by’

Incorrect: He succeeded by to work hard.

Correct: He succeeded by working hard.

Incorrect: She improved by to study more.

Correct: She improved by studying more.

Incorrect: They saved money by to stay home.

Correct: They saved money by staying home.

Incorrect: He stayed fit by to run every day.

Correct: He stayed fit by running every day.

Incorrect: She solved the problem by to think carefully.

Correct: She solved the problem by thinking carefully.

Incorrect: He avoided a problem by to plan ahead.

Correct: He avoided a problem by planning ahead.

Rule 19: Gerunds after ‘avoid’

Incorrect: He avoided to make mistakes.

Correct: He avoided making mistakes.

Incorrect: She avoided to speak.

Correct: She avoided speaking.

Incorrect: They avoided to spend too much.

Correct: They avoided spending too much.

Incorrect: He avoided to take risks.

Correct: He avoided taking risks.

Incorrect: We avoided to argue.

Correct: We avoided arguing.

Incorrect: She avoided to be late.

Correct: She avoided being late.

Rule 20: Gerunds after ‘prefer’

Incorrect: He prefers to walk.

Correct: He prefers walking.

Incorrect: She prefers to swim.

Correct: She prefers swimming.

Incorrect: He prefers to read.

Correct: He prefers reading.

Incorrect: They prefer to travel.

Correct: They prefer traveling.

Incorrect: We prefer to stay home.

Correct: We prefer staying home.

Incorrect: She prefers to study at night.

Correct: She prefers studying at night.

Rule 21: Gerunds after ‘admit’

Incorrect: He admitted to steal the money.

Correct: He admitted stealing the money.

Incorrect: She admitted to break the vase.

Correct: She admitted breaking the vase.

Incorrect: They admitted to cheat on the test.

Correct: They admitted cheating on the test.

Incorrect: He admitted to forget his homework.

Correct: He admitted forgetting his homework.

Incorrect: She admitted to lose the keys.

Correct: She admitted losing the keys.

Incorrect: We admitted to make a mistake.

Correct: We admitted making a mistake.

Rule 22: Gerunds after ‘avoid’

Incorrect: They avoided to go outside during the storm.

Correct: They avoided going outside during the storm.

Incorrect: She avoided to speak with strangers.

Correct: She avoided speaking with strangers.

Incorrect: He avoided to take responsibility.

Correct: He avoided taking responsibility.

Incorrect: We avoided to stay out late.

Correct: We avoided staying out late.

Incorrect: She avoided to eat too much.

Correct: She avoided eating too much.

Incorrect: They avoided to drive at night.

Correct: They avoided driving at night.

Rule 23: Gerunds after ‘practice’

Incorrect: He practices to play the guitar.

Correct: He practices playing the guitar.

Incorrect: She practices to sing every day.

Correct: She practices singing every day.

Incorrect: They practice to run in the morning.

Correct: They practice running in the morning.

Incorrect: He practices to write essays.

Correct: He practices writing essays.

Incorrect: We practice to speak English.

Correct: We practice speaking English.

Incorrect: She practices to cook Italian dishes.

Correct: She practices cooking Italian dishes.

Rule 24: Gerunds after ‘consider’

Incorrect: I considered to move to another city.

Correct: I considered moving to another city.

Incorrect: He considered to change his job.

Correct: He considered changing his job.

Incorrect: She considered to buy a new car.

Correct: She considered buying a new car.

Incorrect: We considered to go on vacation.

Correct: We considered going on vacation.

Incorrect: They considered to sell their house.

Correct: They considered selling their house.

Incorrect: He considered to switch careers.

Correct: He considered switching careers.

Rule 25: Gerunds after ‘appreciate’

Incorrect: I appreciate to help with the project.

Correct: I appreciate helping with the project.

Incorrect: She appreciated to receive the gift.

Correct: She appreciated receiving the gift.

Incorrect: They appreciated to hear good news.

Correct: They appreciated hearing good news.

Incorrect: He appreciated to get support.

Correct: He appreciated getting support.

Incorrect: We appreciated to have your help.

Correct: We appreciated having your help.

Incorrect: She appreciated to meet new people.

Correct: She appreciated meeting new people.

Rule 26: Gerunds after ‘finish’

Incorrect: He finished to do his homework.

Correct: He finished doing his homework.

Incorrect: She finished to write her essay.

Correct: She finished writing her essay.

Incorrect: They finished to clean the room.

Correct: They finished cleaning the room.

Incorrect: He finished to read the book.

Correct: He finished reading the book.

Incorrect: We finished to prepare dinner.

Correct: We finished preparing dinner.

Incorrect: She finished to paint the wall.

Correct: She finished painting the wall.

Rule 27: Gerunds after ‘be busy’

Incorrect: She is busy to organize the event.

Correct: She is busy organizing the event.

Incorrect: He is busy to fix the car.

Correct: He is busy fixing the car.

Incorrect: They are busy to plan the trip.

Correct: They are busy planning the trip.

Incorrect: We are busy to prepare for the party.

Correct: We are busy preparing for the party.

Incorrect: She is busy to write her report.

Correct: She is busy writing her report.

Incorrect: He is busy to finish his project.

Correct: He is busy finishing his project.

Rule 28: Gerunds after ‘enjoy’

Incorrect: He enjoys to play soccer.

Correct: He enjoys playing soccer.

Incorrect: She enjoys to sing.

Correct: She enjoys singing.

Incorrect: They enjoy to travel.

Correct: They enjoy traveling.

Incorrect: We enjoy to cook together.

Correct: We enjoy cooking together.

Incorrect: He enjoys to watch movies.

Correct: He enjoys watching movies.

Incorrect: She enjoys to read books.

Correct: She enjoys reading books.

Rule 29: Gerunds after ‘suggest’

Incorrect: He suggested to go to the park.

Correct: He suggested going to the park.

Incorrect: She suggested to eat at a restaurant.

Correct: She suggested eating at a restaurant.

Incorrect: They suggested to take a vacation.

Correct: They suggested taking a vacation.

Incorrect: He suggested to watch a movie.

Correct: He suggested watching a movie.

Incorrect: We suggested to start early.

Correct: We suggested starting early.

Incorrect: She suggested to visit the museum.

Correct: She suggested visiting the museum.

Rule 30: Gerunds after ‘be worth’

Incorrect: This movie is worth to watch.

Correct: This movie is worth watching.

Incorrect: The book is worth to read.

Correct: The book is worth reading.

Incorrect: The trip is worth to take.

Correct: The trip is worth taking.

Incorrect: The museum is worth to visit.

Correct: The museum is worth visiting.

Incorrect: The restaurant is worth to try.

Correct: The restaurant is worth trying.

Incorrect: The effort is worth to make.

Correct: The effort is worth making.

Rule 31: Gerunds after ‘be afraid of’

Incorrect: He is afraid of to fail the exam.

Correct: He is afraid of failing the exam.

Incorrect: She is afraid of to speak in public.

Correct: She is afraid of speaking in public.

Incorrect: They are afraid of to make mistakes.

Correct: They are afraid of making mistakes.

Incorrect: He is afraid of to confront his boss.

Correct: He is afraid of confronting his boss.

Incorrect: She is afraid of to fly in a plane.

Correct: She is afraid of flying in a plane.

Incorrect: We are afraid of to try new things.

Correct: We are afraid of trying new things.

Rule 32: Gerunds after ‘keep’

Incorrect: He kept to talk during the meeting.

Correct: He kept talking during the meeting.

Incorrect: She kept to complain about the weather.

Correct: She kept complaining about the weather.

Incorrect: They kept to argue all night.

Correct: They kept arguing all night.

Incorrect: He kept to work on the project.

Correct: He kept working on the project.

Incorrect: We kept to ask for help.

Correct: We kept asking for help.

Incorrect: She kept to sing while working.

Correct: She kept singing while working.

Rule 33: Gerunds after ‘be capable of’

Incorrect: She is capable of to manage the team.

Correct: She is capable of managing the team.

Incorrect: He is capable of to solve the problem.

Correct: He is capable of solving the problem.

Incorrect: They are capable of to lead the project.

Correct: They are capable of leading the project.

Incorrect: We are capable of to make decisions.

Correct: We are capable of making decisions.

Incorrect: She is capable of to handle the workload.

Correct: She is capable of handling the workload.

Incorrect: He is capable of to organize the event.

Correct: He is capable of organizing the event.

Rule 34: Gerunds after ‘suggest’

Incorrect: I suggested to visit the museum.

Correct: I suggested visiting the museum.

Incorrect: She suggested to try the new restaurant.

Correct: She suggested trying the new restaurant.

Incorrect: They suggested to take a break.

Correct: They suggested taking a break.

Incorrect: He suggested to attend the conference.

Correct: He suggested attending the conference.

Incorrect: We suggested to start early.

Correct: We suggested starting early.

Incorrect: She suggested to watch the movie.

Correct: She suggested watching the movie.

Rule 35: Gerunds after ‘discuss’

Incorrect: They discussed to go on vacation.

Correct: They discussed going on vacation.

Incorrect: We discussed to change the plan.

Correct: We discussed changing the plan.

Incorrect: He discussed to leave the company.

Correct: He discussed leaving the company.

Incorrect: She discussed to visit her family.

Correct: She discussed visiting her family.

Incorrect: They discussed to build a new house.

Correct: They discussed building a new house.

Incorrect: We discussed to start a new project.

Correct: We discussed starting a new project.

Rule 36: Gerunds after ‘be good at’

Incorrect: He is good at to fix cars.

Correct: He is good at fixing cars.

Incorrect: She is good at to paint pictures.

Correct: She is good at painting pictures.

Incorrect: They are good at to solve puzzles.

Correct: They are good at solving puzzles.

Incorrect: He is good at to teach math.

Correct: He is good at teaching math.

Incorrect: We are good at to organize events.

Correct: We are good at organizing events.

Incorrect: She is good at to play the piano.

Correct: She is good at playing the piano.

Rule 37: Gerunds after ‘finish’

Incorrect: I finished to clean the house.

Correct: I finished cleaning the house.

Incorrect: She finished to write her report.

Correct: She finished writing her report.

Incorrect: They finished to prepare dinner.

Correct: They finished preparing dinner.

Incorrect: He finished to build the model.

Correct: He finished building the model.

Incorrect: We finished to pack for the trip.

Correct: We finished packing for the trip.

Incorrect: She finished to design the logo.

Correct: She finished designing the logo.

Rule 38: Gerunds after ‘can’t help’

Incorrect: He can’t help to laugh at the joke.

Correct: He can’t help laughing at the joke.

Incorrect: She can’t help to feel nervous.

Correct: She can’t help feeling nervous.

Incorrect: They can’t help to worry about the future.

Correct: They can’t help worrying about the future.

Incorrect: He can’t help to smile when he’s happy.

Correct: He can’t help smiling when he’s happy.

Incorrect: We can’t help to notice the problem.

Correct: We can’t help noticing the problem.

Incorrect: She can’t help to cry during sad movies.

Correct: She can’t help crying during sad movies.

Rule 39: Gerunds after ‘be fond of’

Incorrect: She is fond of to take photos.

Correct: She is fond of taking photos.

Incorrect: He is fond of to play basketball.

Correct: He is fond of playing basketball.

Incorrect: They are fond of to collect stamps.

Correct: They are fond of collecting stamps.

Incorrect: She is fond of to knit sweaters.

Correct: She is fond of knitting sweaters.

Incorrect: He is fond of to travel to new places.

Correct: He is fond of traveling to new places.

Incorrect: We are fond of to read books.

Correct: We are fond of reading books.

Rule 40: Gerunds after ‘get used to’

Incorrect: He is getting used to to live in a big city.

Correct: He is getting used to living in a big city.

Incorrect: She is getting used to to drive in traffic.

Correct: She is getting used to driving in traffic.

Incorrect: They are getting used to to speak English daily.

Correct: They are getting used to speaking English daily.

Incorrect: We are getting used to to work from home.

Correct: We are getting used to working from home.

Incorrect: He is getting used to to eat spicy food.

Correct: He is getting used to eating spicy food.

Incorrect: She is getting used to to study at night.

Correct: She is getting used to studying at night.

Rule 41: Gerunds after ‘give up’

Incorrect: He gave up to smoke.

Correct: He gave up smoking.

Incorrect: She gave up to drink coffee.

Correct: She gave up drinking coffee.

Incorrect: They gave up to play video games.

Correct: They gave up playing video games.

Incorrect: He gave up to eat junk food.

Correct: He gave up eating junk food.

Incorrect: We gave up to stay up late.

Correct: We gave up staying up late.

Incorrect: She gave up to watch TV at night.

Correct: She gave up watching TV at night.

Rule 42: Gerunds after ‘be afraid of’

Incorrect: She is afraid of to fail the test.

Correct: She is afraid of failing the test.

Incorrect: He is afraid of to speak in public.

Correct: He is afraid of speaking in public.

Incorrect: They are afraid of to make mistakes.

Correct: They are afraid of making mistakes.

Incorrect: We are afraid of to take risks.

Correct: We are afraid of taking risks.

Incorrect: She is afraid of to ride a bike.

Correct: She is afraid of riding a bike.

Incorrect: He is afraid of to learn new skills.

Correct: He is afraid of learning new skills.

Rule 43: Gerunds after ‘look forward to’

Incorrect: I look forward to to meet you.

Correct: I look forward to meeting you.

Incorrect: He looks forward to to start his new job.

Correct: He looks forward to starting his new job.

Incorrect: We look forward to to go on vacation.

Correct: We look forward to going on vacation.

Incorrect: She looks forward to to see her family.

Correct: She looks forward to seeing her family.

Incorrect: They look forward to to attend the party.

Correct: They look forward to attending the party.

Incorrect: He looks forward to to play soccer.

Correct: He looks forward to playing soccer.

Rule 44: Gerunds after ‘be capable of’

Incorrect: She is capable of to lead the team.

Correct: She is capable of leading the team.

Incorrect: He is capable of to solve the puzzle.

Correct: He is capable of solving the puzzle.

Incorrect: They are capable of to manage the project.

Correct: They are capable of managing the project.

Incorrect: She is capable of to organize the event.

Correct: She is capable of organizing the event.

Incorrect: He is capable of to handle the pressure.

Correct: He is capable of handling the pressure.

Incorrect: We are capable of to fix the problem.

Correct: We are capable of fixing the problem.

Rule 45: Gerunds after ‘prefer’

Incorrect: He prefers to walk instead of to drive.

Correct: He prefers walking instead of driving.

Incorrect: She prefers to cook instead of to order food.

Correct: She prefers cooking instead of ordering food.

Incorrect: They prefer to play outside instead of to watch TV.

Correct: They prefer playing outside instead of watching TV.

Incorrect: He prefers to read instead of to play video games.

Correct: He prefers reading instead of playing video games.

Incorrect: We prefer to study in the morning instead of to stay up late.

Correct: We prefer studying in the morning instead of staying up late.

Incorrect: She prefers to listen to music instead of to watch movies.

Correct: She prefers listening to music instead of watching movies.

Rule 46: Gerunds after ‘continue’

Incorrect: He continues to study even when he is tired.

Correct: He continues studying even when he is tired.

Incorrect: She continues to work on her project.

Correct: She continues working on her project.

Incorrect: They continue to play even though it’s late.

Correct: They continue playing even though it’s late.

Incorrect: We continue to watch TV until midnight.

Correct: We continue watching TV until midnight.

Incorrect: He continues to learn new things every day.

Correct: He continues learning new things every day.

Incorrect: She continues to practice her piano skills.

Correct: She continues practicing her piano skills.

Rule 47: Gerunds after ‘start’

Incorrect: He started to learn Spanish last year.

Correct: He started learning Spanish last year.

Incorrect: She started to practice yoga.

Correct: She started practicing yoga.

Incorrect: They started to cook dinner.

Correct: They started cooking dinner.

Incorrect: He started to run every morning.

Correct: He started running every morning.

Incorrect: We started to plan our vacation.

Correct: We started planning our vacation.

Incorrect: She started to read the book last week.

Correct: She started reading the book last week.

Rule 48: Gerunds after ‘stop’

Incorrect: He stopped to smoke.

Correct: He stopped smoking.

Incorrect: She stopped to drink coffee in the morning.

Correct: She stopped drinking coffee in the morning.

Incorrect: They stopped to watch TV after dinner.

Correct: They stopped watching TV after dinner.

Incorrect: He stopped to eat fast food.

Correct: He stopped eating fast food.

Incorrect: We stopped to argue about small things.

Correct: We stopped arguing about small things.

Incorrect: She stopped to complain about the weather.

Correct: She stopped complaining about the weather.

Rule 49: Gerunds after ‘admit’

Incorrect: He admitted to make a mistake.

Correct: He admitted making a mistake.

Incorrect: She admitted to break the vase.

Correct: She admitted breaking the vase.

Incorrect: They admitted to cheat on the test.

Correct: They admitted cheating on the test.

Incorrect: He admitted to forget his homework.

Correct: He admitted forgetting his homework.

Incorrect: We admitted to lose the keys.

Correct: We admitted losing the keys.

Incorrect: She admitted to make a wrong decision.

Correct: She admitted making a wrong decision.

Rule 50: Gerunds after ‘practice’

Incorrect: She practices to play the guitar every day.

Correct: She practices playing the guitar every day.

Incorrect: He practices to speak English in the morning.

Correct: He practices speaking English in the morning.

Incorrect: They practice to swim at the local pool.

Correct: They practice swimming at the local pool.

Incorrect: We practice to solve math problems.

Correct: We practice solving math problems.

Incorrect: She practices to dance for the performance.

Correct: She practices dancing for the performance.

Incorrect: He practices to cook different dishes.

Correct: He practices cooking different dishes.

Rule 51: Gerunds after ‘consider’

Incorrect: I consider to move to another city.

Correct: I consider moving to another city.

Incorrect: She considered to quit her job.

Correct: She considered quitting her job.

Incorrect: They considered to change their plans.

Correct: They considered changing their plans.

Incorrect: He considered to buy a new car.

Correct: He considered buying a new car.

Incorrect: We considered to visit Europe.

Correct: We considered visiting Europe.

Incorrect: She considered to take a break from work.

Correct: She considered taking a break from work.

Rule 52: Gerunds after ‘be proud of’

Incorrect: She is proud of to win the competition.

Correct: She is proud of winning the competition.

Incorrect: He is proud of to graduate from college.

Correct: He is proud of graduating from college.

Incorrect: They are proud of to finish the project.

Correct: They are proud of finishing the project.

Incorrect: We are proud of to raise money for charity.

Correct: We are proud of raising money for charity.

Incorrect: She is proud of to speak three languages.

Correct: She is proud of speaking three languages.

Incorrect: He is proud of to become a manager.

Correct: He is proud of becoming a manager.

Rule 53: Gerunds after ‘talk about’

Incorrect: We talked about to go to the beach.

Correct: We talked about going to the beach.

Incorrect: She talked about to buy a house.

Correct: She talked about buying a house.

Incorrect: They talked about to start a new business.

Correct: They talked about starting a new business.

Incorrect: He talked about to travel to Asia.

Correct: He talked about traveling to Asia.

Incorrect: We talked about to have a party.

Correct: We talked about having a party.

Incorrect: She talked about to write a book.

Correct: She talked about writing a book.

Rule 54: Gerunds after ‘be tired of’

Incorrect: He is tired of to work long hours.

Correct: He is tired of working long hours.

Incorrect: She is tired of to commute every day.

Correct: She is tired of commuting every day.

Incorrect: They are tired of to wait for the bus.

Correct: They are tired of waiting for the bus.

Incorrect: We are tired of to eat the same food.

Correct: We are tired of eating the same food.

Incorrect: He is tired of to study late at night.

Correct: He is tired of studying late at night.

Incorrect: She is tired of to clean the house.

Correct: She is tired of cleaning the house.

Rule 55: Gerunds after ‘can’t stand’

Incorrect: I can’t stand to listen to loud music.

Correct: I can’t stand listening to loud music.

Incorrect: She can’t stand to wait in long lines.

Correct: She can’t stand waiting in long lines.

Incorrect: He can’t stand to wake up early.

Correct: He can’t stand waking up early.

Incorrect: They can’t stand to argue with each other.

Correct: They can’t stand arguing with each other.

Incorrect: We can’t stand to sit in traffic.

Correct: We can’t stand sitting in traffic.

Incorrect: She can’t stand to deal with rude people.

Correct: She can’t stand dealing with rude people.

Rule 56: Gerunds after ‘be interested in’

Incorrect: He is interested in to learn programming.

Correct: He is interested in learning programming.

Incorrect: She is interested in to take a cooking class.

Correct: She is interested in taking a cooking class.

Incorrect: They are interested in to travel the world.

Correct: They are interested in traveling the world.

Incorrect: He is interested in to play the piano.

Correct: He is interested in playing the piano.

Incorrect: We are interested in to learn new languages.

Correct: We are interested in learning new languages.

Incorrect: She is interested in to run a marathon.

Correct: She is interested in running a marathon.

Rule 57: Gerunds after ‘mention’

Incorrect: She mentioned to visit the museum.

Correct: She mentioned visiting the museum.

Incorrect: He mentioned to start a new project.

Correct: He mentioned starting a new project.

Incorrect: They mentioned to go hiking next weekend.

Correct: They mentioned going hiking next weekend.

Incorrect: We mentioned to organize a party.

Correct: We mentioned organizing a party.

Incorrect: She mentioned to take a trip to the mountains.

Correct: She mentioned taking a trip to the mountains.

Incorrect: He mentioned to read a book.

Correct: He mentioned reading a book.

Rule 58: Gerunds after ‘be bad at’

Incorrect: He is bad at to solve puzzles.

Correct: He is bad at solving puzzles.

Incorrect: She is bad at to cook Italian food.

Correct: She is bad at cooking Italian food.

Incorrect: They are bad at to play chess.

Correct: They are bad at playing chess.

Incorrect: He is bad at to draw portraits.

Correct: He is bad at drawing portraits.

Incorrect: We are bad at to manage time.

Correct: We are bad at managing time.

Incorrect: She is bad at to organize her schedule.

Correct: She is bad at organizing her schedule.

Rule 59: Gerunds after ‘avoid’

Incorrect: They avoid to talk about the issue.

Correct: They avoid talking about the issue.

Incorrect: He avoids to take risks.

Correct: He avoids taking risks.

Incorrect: She avoids to spend money unnecessarily.

Correct: She avoids spending money unnecessarily.

Incorrect: We avoid to stay out late.

Correct: We avoid staying out late.

Incorrect: They avoid to make decisions in a hurry.

Correct: They avoid making decisions in a hurry.

Incorrect: He avoids to speak in front of large crowds.

Correct: He avoids speaking in front of large crowds.

Rule 60: Gerunds after ‘practice’

Incorrect: She practices to play the violin every day.

Correct: She practices playing the violin every day.

Incorrect: He practices to drive in the mornings.

Correct: He practices driving in the mornings.

Incorrect: They practice to swim at the local pool.

Correct: They practice swimming at the local pool.

Incorrect: We practice to write essays.

Correct: We practice writing essays.

Incorrect: She practices to bake cakes for her family.

Correct: She practices baking cakes for her family.

Incorrect: He practices to run every evening.

Correct: He practices running every evening.