What is a GERUND?
A GERUND is a TYPE OF VERBAL.
A VERBAL is a VERB acting like another PART OF SPEECH.
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A VERB ending in “ing” acting like a NOUN is called a GERUND and will be the subject, subject complement, direct object, indirect object, or object of the preposition.
So, a GERUND is a NOUN!
For instance, in this sentence the VERB (ending in “ing”) is acting like a plain old VERB.
They were swimming in the moat.
But, in these sentences the VERB (ending in “ing”) is acting like a NOUN.
Subject = Swimming is amazing!
Subject Complement = Peter is swimming.
Direct Object = Peter enjoys swimming.
Indirect Object = Peter gives swimming all of his attention.
Object of the Preposition = Peter is devoted to swimming.
Swimming is a GERUND (NOUN) in all of those sentences.
It is tricky, but before you label the “ing” word a VERB or a NOUN, make sure you determine the function of the word.
