Summary Comparison of Gerund - Verb + Verb + Object + Verbing

In English grammar, certain verb patterns require the use of a gerund when followed by another verb. This structure often involves a verb, followed by another verb (in its gerund form), and the object. The gerund acts as the object of the first verb, indicating that the action of the second verb is part of the activity or situation expressed by the first verb.

This structure is commonly seen in verbs that express preferences, actions, or activities that involve another action. Understanding when to use a gerund after a verb is essential for correct sentence construction and expression.

Key Points:

1. Structure:

   • Verb + Verb + Object + Gerund
   • In this structure, the first verb is followed by a second verb in its gerund form, and this second verb indicates an ongoing action or activity.

2. Examples of Verbs Followed by Gerunds: Certain verbs require the gerund form of another verb to complete the sentence. These verbs often express preferences, feelings, or actions that involve doing something.

Examples with Explanation:

1. "Enjoy" + Verb + Object + Gerund:

The verb "enjoy" is often followed by another verb in its gerund form. This construction expresses pleasure in doing an activity.

• Example 1: I enjoy reading books.

  • Explanation: In this sentence, "enjoy" is the main verb, and "reading" is the gerund that follows it. "Reading books" is the activity that the speaker enjoys.

• Example 2: She enjoys playing the piano.

  • Explanation: "Enjoys" is followed by "playing," the gerund of the verb "play." The sentence expresses that playing the piano is something she enjoys.

2. "Avoid" + Verb + Object + Gerund:

The verb "avoid" is often followed by a gerund to show that the subject actively stays away from or refrains from doing something.

• Example 1: They avoid going to the gym in the morning.

  • Explanation: "Avoid" is the verb, and "going" is the gerund that follows. This sentence shows that the subject prefers not to go to the gym in the morning.

• Example 2: He avoids answering difficult questions.

  • Explanation: Here, "avoid" is followed by "answering," which is the gerund form of the verb "answer." The sentence indicates that he does not like to answer difficult questions.

3. "Suggest" + Verb + Object + Gerund:

The verb "suggest" is also commonly followed by a gerund, indicating a recommendation or proposal for a specific action or activity.

• Example 1: I suggest going to the park tomorrow.

  • Explanation: "Suggest" is the verb, and "going" is the gerund form of "go." The sentence implies that the speaker is proposing the action of going to the park.

• Example 2: She suggested studying for the exam tonight.

  • Explanation: "Suggested" is the verb, and "studying" is the gerund form of "study." This sentence proposes studying for the exam as an activity for tonight.

4. "Admit" + Verb + Object + Gerund:

The verb "admit" is often followed by a gerund to express a confession or acknowledgment of an action.

• Example 1: He admitted stealing the money.

  • Explanation: "Admit" is followed by "stealing," the gerund form of "steal." This sentence shows that the subject confessed to the action of stealing money.

• Example 2: She admitted making a mistake.

  • Explanation: "Admitted" is the verb, and "making" is the gerund form of "make." This expresses the confession that she had made a mistake.