Verbal Nouns or Gerunds Definition, Types with Examples

Verbal nouns or Gerunds are like word tools in grammar that help us talk about actions in a simpler way. When we change a verb into a noun, it makes it easier to explain what’s happening. Verbal Nouns Examples include, instead of saying “I run,” we can use a verbal noun and say “I enjoy running.” See, we turned “run” into “running.” It helps us share not just the action but also why we like it. Verbal nouns make our sentences more interesting and give them more details. So, next time you talk, remember, that verbal nouns make talking about actions and feelings a breeze!

Verbal Nouns or Gerunds Definition and Types with Examples

What are Verbal Nouns?

Verbal nouns, also known as gerunds, are a grammatical construction that functions as a noun while maintaining some characteristics of a verb. They are formed by adding the suffix “-ing” to the base form of a verb. Verbal nouns represent actions or processes in a way that allows them to function as subjects, objects, or complements within a sentence.

Examples:

Running is my favorite form of exercise.
She is interested in learning new languages.
Cooking can be a creative and enjoyable activity.
The children were excited about playing in the park.
His passion is writing poetry.

Activities:

Running
Swimming
Dancing
Jogging
Hiking

Learning and Education:

Reading
Studying
Researching
Writing
Solving

Creativity:

Drawing
Painting
Sculpting
Crafting
Designing

Recreation:

Playing
Hiking
Biking
Fishing
Camping

Occupations:

Teaching
Nursing
Programming
Writing
Consulting

Daily Actions:

Cooking
Cleaning
Driving
Sleeping
Eating

Sports and Exercise:

Jogging
Skiing
Weightlifting
Cycling
Stretching

Social Interactions:

Helping
Chatting
Socializing
Volunteering
Collaborating

Achievements:

Winning
Accomplishing
Succeeding
Completing
Mastering

Hobbies:

Gardening
Fishing
Photographing
Bird-watching
Collecting

Verbal Noun Examples:

I love reading.
Swimming is refreshing.
Writing inspires me.
They enjoy playing outside.
She enjoys drawing daily.
Cooking is my hobby.
Winning feels fantastic.
Witnessing the construction was exciting.
Skiing requires skill.
Helping is fulfilling.

Verbal Noun Exercise:

1. What is a verbal noun also commonly known as?
a. Adverb
b. Gerund
c. Adjective
d. Pronoun
2. Which suffix is typically added to a base verb to form a gerund?
a. -ed
b. -ing
c. -ly
d. -er
3. In the sentence “She enjoys dancing,” what is the verbal noun?
a. She
b. Enjoys
c. Dancing
d. Enjoys dancing
4. What function can a gerund perform in a sentence?
a. Only a subject
b. Only an object
c. Subject, object, or complement
d. Only a modifier
5. Identify the verbal noun in the sentence: “His favorite hobby is writing.”
a. His
b. Favorite
c. Hobby
d. Writing
6. Which category does the verbal noun “biking” belong to?
a. Occupation
b. Sports and Exercise
c. Hobbies
d. Daily Actions
7. Choose the correct gerund form of the verb “read”:
a. Reading
b. Read
c. Reads
d. Readly