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Wordabulary

gerund

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

A verb form ending in '-ing' that functions as a noun in a sentence.

"In 'swimming is good exercise', the word 'swimming' is a gerund."

Usage notes

A gerund can look identical to a present participle, but only the gerund acts like a noun in the sentence.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "In 'swimming is good exercise', the word 'swimming' is a _____."

Answer: gerund

In your own words, what does "gerund" mean?

A verb form ending in '-ing' that functions as a noun in a sentence.

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