General English Level 6 Version 2.1 © 2004 acl Pty Ltd GELEV6 Unit 02 Topic 02.doc We use gerunds in four ways: 1. As the subject of a verb, clause or sentence. Moving to another city doesn't really worry me. 2. As the object of a verb, clause or sentence. Well, as much as I enjoy living in this city, I'd like to stay with this company, so I'll move if I have to. 3. After verb + preposition combinations. I do and I'm thinking of writing a letter to the editor. 4. After certain verbs. I think they should consider applying for the job. Other verbs that are followed by a gerund are: avoid involve suggest can't help give up imagine risk prevent keep postpone mind miss forgive finish delay deny appreciate admit Examples Listen to your recording. 1. I love eating ice cream. 2. He apologised for shouting at us. 3. Going to the movies is my favourite thing to do on a Saturday night. 4. He admitted stealing the money. 5. The worst thing was waiting to find out. 6. Being tall is an advantage in crowds.  WRITING 04 Gerunds Exercise 1 In the first exercise you will focus on the first reason for using gerunds, as the subject of a verb, clause or sentence. 1. Look at the sentences. 2. Now rewrite the sentence using the verb in bold as a gerund. Example: It is not a good idea to spend a lot of money on clothes. Answer: Spending a lot of money on clothes is not a good idea. 1. It is very hard to quit smoking. 2. When you are an athlete it is important to train hard. 3. It has always been my dream to live in Paris for a year. 4. It's better to eat lots of fruit and vegetables than to take vitamins. 47