29 THE GERUND (VERBAL NOUN/-ING FORM)
ALMOST EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE GERUND
The gerund is the -ing form of the verb used as a noun. For example: We enjoyed visiting the Stock Exchange. The children kept disturbing their father. Yesterday I quit smoking for the thirteenth time.
Frequently, the gerund is preceded by a preposition: After seeing the film, we went to a restaurant. Not by working but by thinking about working will we succeed. Despite solving the problem of inflation, the government became unpopular.
Thirdly, the gerund is traditionally preceded by the possessive form of the pronoun: however, in these more liberal times, the object form is also used: She objected to his (him) playing golf on their wedding anniversary.
Fourthly, certain verbs are used in combination with the gerund only: they are, admit, appreciate, avoid, consider, deny, enjoy, escape, finish, imagine, keep, miss, postpone, practise, quit, resent, resist, suggest, stop.
Rewrite each sentence keeping the original sense. Begin the sentences as shown, and use the gerund:
01. He said that he had stolen the watch.
The accused...
02. He said that she must go with him.
He insisted...
03. I would like to see the film again.
I wouldn't mind...
04. Let's leave the car here.
What about...
05. He drove too quickly, so they arrested him.
He was arrested...
06. Why don't we stop here?
What about...
07. Paul wonders if he might emigrate.
Paul is thinking...
08. He told us he was sorry that he was late.
He apologised...
09. He will resign, no matter what I say.
I can't prevent...
10. Sorry to disturb you like this.
Forgive...
11. He told them that he was guilty.
He admitted...
12. He complained over and over again.
He kept...
13. The park attendant told them they were not allowed to walk on the grass.
The park attendant told them to...
14. It cost too much.
It wasn't worth...
15. It was kind of you to meet me.
Thank you...
16. It was kind of you to lend me the book.
Thank you...
17. I t would be quite pleasant to go to the concert.
I wouldn't mind...
18. I would be grateful if you would not play that rock music.
Would you mind...
19. "Why don't we stay at home and play Monopoly," he said.
He suggested...
20. "It wasn't me," he protested.
He denied...
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