Simplifying Sentences with Gerund Phrases
Gerund phrases are basically nouns, so we typically find them anywhere we might find a noun.
Playing the tuba is fun. |
In this case, the gerund phrase is the subject of the sentence. |
I like playing the tuba. |
In this case, the gerund phrase is the object of the verb "like". |
I was the fastest at climbing the rope. |
In this case, the gerund phrase is the object of the preposition "at." |
When simplifying a sentence with a gerund phrase, you must pay attention!
- If the gerund is an essential noun (that is, if it's the subject of the clause, or the object of the main verb), you CANNOT cancel it!
- However, if the gerund is the object of a preposition, then you CAN cancel it (because it's part of the prepositional phrase, and you already know that you can always cancel prepositional phrases).
In the following examples:
- The gerund phrases are highlighted in yellow.
- Prepositional phrases have been crossed out.
Simplified Sentence | Clause Pattern | ||
---|---|---|---|
1 |
The slave was a master |
S=C |
equative |
2 |
Asking questions is important. |
S=C |
equative |
3 |
Crying is a sign |
S=C |
equative |
4 |
That nursery is famous |
S=C |
equative |
5 |
She stopped eating meat. |
SVO |
transitive |
6 |
The British reporter liked living |
SVO |
transitive |
7 |
These activities require getting your hair cut. |
SVO |
transitive |
8 |
Running |
S=C |
equative |
9 |
The models practiced walking |
SVO |
transitive |
10 |
I won the race |
SVO |
transitive |
Instruction for Quiz
Find the base clause.
Quiz