Understanding the correct usage of gerunds in English is crucial for effective communication. Gerunds, formed by adding “-ing” to a verb, are often used in conjunction with specific verbs. In this guide, we’ll explore the grammar structure of common verbs followed by gerunds, providing you with a comprehensive list and examples to enhance your English language skills as an English as an Additional Language (EAL) learner.
What is a Gerund?
Before delving into the specific verbs, let’s briefly revisit what a gerund is. A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun in a sentence. It allows us to express actions or activities in a more dynamic and versatile manner.
Common Verbs Followed by Gerunds (Or Common Verbs Followed by -ing)
Admit
- She admitted making a mistake in the report.
- He admitted cheating on the test.
Advise
- I advise practicing English every day.
- The teacher advised reviewing the notes before the exam.
Avoid
- He avoids eating fast food for a healthier lifestyle.
- We should avoid interrupting others during conversations.
Be Used To
- She is used to working late hours.
- Are you used to speaking in public?
Can’t Help
- I can’t help laughing at that joke.
- He can’t help falling in love with her.
Can’t Stand
- She can’t stand waiting in long lines.
- We can’t stand listening to that loud music.
Consider
- Have you considered taking up a new hobby?
- She considered changing her career path.
Deny
- He denied stealing the cookies.
- She denied knowing about the surprise.
Discuss
- Let’s discuss improving our communication skills.
- They discussed raising their concerns at the meeting.
Dislike
- She dislikes waking up early.
- Do you dislike cleaning your room?
End Up
- We ended up spending the entire day at the beach.
- They ended up regretting their decision.
Enjoy
- I enjoy reading novels in my free time.
- She enjoys dancing at parties.
Feel Like
- I feel like going for a walk.
- Do you feel like watching a movie tonight?
Finish
- We need to finish cleaning the house before guests arrive.
- They finished watching the movie just in time.
Forget
- Don’t forget bringing your homework tomorrow.
- She forgot locking the door.
Get Used To
- It takes time to get used to living in a new city.
- He got used to working with tight deadlines.
Give Up
- Don’t give up trying to improve.
- She gave up smoking for her health.
Go On
- The teacher went on explaining the complex topic.
- They went on discussing their travel plans.
Have Difficulty / Have Problems / Have Trouble
- I have difficulty understanding this concept.
- She has problems solving math equations.
- They have trouble finding the right solution.
Imagine
- Can you imagine living in a different country?
- She couldn’t imagine working without her morning coffee.
It’s No Use
- It’s no use crying over spilled milk.
- It’s no use complaining; let’s find a solution.
It’s Worthwhile
- It’s worthwhile investing time in self-improvement.
- Learning a new language is always worthwhile pursuing.
Keep
- Keep practicing to become fluent in English.
- She kept trying until she succeeded.
Look Forward To
- I look forward to hearing from you soon.
- They look forward to meeting you in person.
Mention
- He mentioned meeting us at the cafe.
- Did you mention calling him about the event?
Mind
- Do you mind turning down the music?
- She doesn’t mind helping with the project.
Miss
- I miss spending time with my family.
- They miss playing soccer together.
Practice
- It’s essential to practice speaking English daily.
- She practices playing the guitar every evening.
Recommend
- The doctor recommended doing regular exercise for a healthy lifestyle.
- I recommend watching the tutorial before attempting the task.
Remember
- Remember turning off the lights before leaving.
- He remembered buying a gift for the party.
Risk
- Are you willing to risk losing everything for a chance at success?
- He risked quitting his job to pursue his passion.
Quit
- She quit smoking last year.
- He quit complaining about his job.
Spend Time
- I spend time reading every evening.
- They spend time cooking together.
Stop
- Stop worrying about the future.
- They stopped arguing and found a solution.
Suggest
- The teacher suggested writing a draft before the final essay.
- They suggested going to the beach for a relaxing weekend.
Understand
- I don’t understand missing the deadline.
- Can you understand forgetting the appointment?
Waste Time
- Don’t waste time procrastinating; start your work.
- She wasted time waiting for the bus.
Verbs Followed by Gerunds and Infinitives: Exercises
Practice what you have learned with our awesome list of Exercises: Verbs Followed by Gerunds and Infinitives.
Common Verbs Followed by Gerunds: Conclusion
Mastering the usage of common verbs followed by gerunds is a key aspect of becoming proficient in English. By incorporating these verbs into your everyday conversations and writing, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also express yourself more fluently and naturally. Keep practicing, and soon, using gerunds will become second nature in your English language journey. Happy learning!
You can check out other verbs that are followed by gerunds in our awesome article Verbs Followed by Gerunds!
