Grammar: B1 - ⚙️ Verbs in Depth: 🎭 Modals & 🌱 Non-Finite Verbs (Introduction) - Lesson 10: Gerunds as Subjects of sentences (Swimming is fun.)

🌱 Lesson 10: Gerunds as Subjects of Sentences

We have learned that a gerund¹ (the -ing form of a verb) can act like a noun. In a previous lesson, we saw it as the object of another verb (e.g., "I enjoy reading."). Today, we will learn how to use a gerund as the subject² of a sentence. This is a great way to talk about activities and ideas.

The Structure: Gerund + Singular Verb

When a gerund or a gerund phrase starts a sentence, it is the subject. The most important rule to remember is that a gerund subject is always treated as singular³. This means the main verb of the sentence must also be singular (e.g., is, was, has, helps, makes).

Formula: Gerund Phrase (as subject) + Singular Verb + ...

• "Learning English is important." (NOT: Learning English are important.)
• "Riding the Bamboo Train in Battambang was a lot of fun." (NOT: Riding... were fun.)
• "Waking up early makes me feel productive⁴." (NOT: Waking up... make me feel.)

Common Uses for Gerund Subjects

Using a gerund as the subject is very common when you want to talk about activities or state a general truth⁵.

Talking about an activity:
"Cycling around the countryside near Battambang is a relaxing experience."

Giving an opinion:
"Trying new kinds of street food is very exciting."

Stating a general truth:
"Exercising regularly helps you stay healthy."

🧠 Practice Quiz: Choose the Correct Verb

Choose the correct singular verb form to complete each sentence.

1. Learning a new language _______ a lot of practice. (requires / require)
   Answer: requires
2. Visiting the temples around Battambang _______ a full day. (takes / take)
   Answer: takes
3. Speaking English fluently _______ my biggest goal right now. (is / are)
   Answer: is
4. Eating too many sweets _______ bad for your health. (is / are)
   Answer: is
5. Why is he so tired? Because working for 10 hours straight _______ anyone tired! (makes / make)
   Answer: makes

📝 Homework: Make Your Own Sentences

Create your own sentences using a gerund as the subject.

1. Write a sentence about an activity you enjoy.
   (Example: Playing football with my friends is my favorite thing to do.)
   _________________________________________
2. Write a sentence giving your opinion about something (e.g., a type of movie, music, or food).
   (Example: Listening to sad music makes me feel calm.)
   _________________________________________
3. Complete this sentence: "Learning how to cook..."
   (Example: Learning how to cook is a very useful skill.)
   _________________________________________

Vocabulary Glossary

1. Gerund: (Noun) - កិរិយានាម (kĕ'rĭ'yaa'néam) - A verb form which functions as a noun, ending in "-ing". ↩
2. Subject: (Noun) - ប្រធាន (prâ'téan) - The noun or pronoun that performs the verb's action or is the main topic of the sentence. ↩
3. Singular: (Adjective) - ឯកវចនៈ (aek'kâ'vô'châ'nă) - Referring to only one person or thing. ↩
4. Productive: (Adjective) - មានផលិតភាព (méan phâlĭt'tâ'phéap) - Achieving a significant amount or result; producing a good result. ↩
5. General Truth: (Noun Phrase) - ការពិតទូទៅ (kaa'pĭt' tuu'tav) - A statement that is always true or widely accepted as true. ↩