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Gerund Clauses
Gerund Clauses in English: their linguistic structure, uses, and main communicative functions.
Professor Fellipe Fernandes Cavallero da Silva
1. Itens iniciais
Purpose
Because gerund clauses comprise one of the most important types of non-tensed subordinate clauses in the
English language, understanding their structure, uses, and functions not only in written, but also in oral
communication represents an essential step for analyzing a variety of texts, especially the ones from the
literary world.
Preparation
Before you start exploring and exploiting this Unit, make sure you have a good English dictionary to clarify any
doubts that may come up.
Goals
To recognize the connection between Non-Finite Forms and Gerund Clauses.
To analyze the characteristics of Gerund Clauses.
To identify the syntactic functions of Gerund Clauses.
To explore the use of Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts.
Warm up
Welcome to our Unit on Gerund Clauses in English! We have organized a pack of engaging sections which will
guide you into a finer understanding of the structure of Gerund Clauses, their functions in both written and
oral communication, as well as their typical uses in literary texts. 
We will learn the elements connecting non-finite forms (i.e., verbal structures with no information concerning 
tense, time, number, or person) and gerund clauses (i.e., a type of subordinate clause which can operate as a 
noun). 
Also, we will learn that Gerund clauses can perform the role of subjects, objects, and prepositional
complements, just to name a few. 
Too many details at one go? Don´t worry! As we advance in each section, every definition and term typically
present in grammar books will become clearer, especially those related to Gerund Clauses, ok? 
Without further ado, let’s get started! 
Enjoy! 
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1. Non-Finite Clauses and Gerund Clauses
Finite vs. Non-Finite Clauses
What are finite clauses?
A finite clause contains a verb form which is in a recognizable tense form. What does it mean? It means that
there are morphological inflections that show us this verb form conveys information on the Present or the Past
Time. According to Carter & McCarthy (2010, p. 398), “tensed verb forms indicate whether a verb is present or
past tense. The -s form and the past form of the verb are tensed forms”. Consider the following examples:
1
Example 1
Anna lives in Santa Catarina.
2
Example 2
Sophia enjoyed her time in New York last year.
3
Example 3
I studied English as a foreign language from the ages of thirteen to fifteen.
4
Example 4
Angelica moved to the United States in 2020 due to the pandemic crisis in Brazil.
The examples above show the occurrence of tensed verb forms in each verb phrase. Sentence (1) contains
the “-s” inflection to refer to the present tense and time, while sentences (2), (3) and (4) highlight the “-d”, “-
ed”, and “-ied” inflections related to the past tense and time. 
What are non-finite clauses?
Non-finite clauses have a completely different perspective: they are structured without any morphological
inflections to refer to tense. Consequently, they cannot provide any piece of information concerning time.
Consider the following sentences:
1
Example 5
[Lost in his thoughts], Anthony missed the plane.
2
Example 6
The students [dressing in a strange uniform] were responsible for the accident.
3 Example 7
Citizens from other Brazilian States are collecting food and clothes [to help people with the terrible
flood in São Paulo].
4
Example 8
[Living in any European country] requires good intercultural and linguistic skills.
The non-finite clauses in each of the sentences above are between brackets [ ]. Moreover, the non-finite verb
forms are highlighted in black.
What do these examples show us? 
Here is what: 
1
Non-finite clauses can possess three possible structures: past participle, such as lost in example (5);
present participle, such as dressing in sentence (6); infinitive, such as to help in sentence (7), and
gerund, such as Living in sentence (8).
2
Non-finite clauses are dependent on the main clause, which means they cannot stand alone to form a
sentence. Consequently, if the main clauses highlighted in green from each of the examples above are
crossed out, the remaining non-finite clauses will lack information so that they can make sense.
3
Non-finite clauses can be used to simplify more complex finite clauses. The non-finite clause in
example (5) is a simplification of an Adverbial Clause of Reason (i.e., Because he was lost in his
thoughts, …). In example (6), its non-finite clause is a simpler version of a Restrictive Adjective Clause
(i.e., who were dressing in strange uniforms). Example (7) shows the reduction of an Adverbial Clause
of Purpose (i.e., so that they are able to help people with the terrible flood in São Paulo).
Gerund Clauses are a great example of non-finite structures and can be used in a variety of ways in the
English language. 
Gerund Clauses – A Type of Non-Finite Clause 
Basically speaking, we can say that a Gerund Clause is a type of non-finite clause which can be used to
function as a noun. They are formed by using the base form of a verb + ing and are positioned in a sentence in
the common places a noun would be present.
It is interesting to notice that each Gerund Clause performs a specific syntactic function typically attributed to
nouns. Let’s check some examples! 
Example (a)
In example (a), we can see that the Gerund Clause [Living] is placed before the main verb phrase of the
sentence (i.e., can be). Consequently, the Gerund Clause operates as the subject. Additionally, it is possible to
replace this Gerund Clause by a simpler structure, the noun [Life], as it is shown above.
Example (b)
In example (b), we can see that the Gerund Clause [studying clauses] is placed after the main verb phrase
(remember = a transitive verb) of the sentence. Consequently, the Gerund Clause operates as the direct
object. Again, it is possible to replace this Gerund Clause with a simpler structure, the noun phrase [the
study], as it can be seen.
Example (c)
In example (c), the Gerund Clause [meditating on my projects] is exploited by a ditransitive verb (i.e., give).
Ditransitive verbs require both an indirect and a direct object. In this case, the Gerund Clause performs the
function of the indirect object. Once again, this non-finite structure can be substituted by a simpler structure,
the noun [meditation].
Example (d)
In example (d), the Gerund Clause [preparing lessons carefully] is located right after a linking verb (i.e., is).
Therefore, the Gerund Clause operates as the Subject Complement in the sentence. In addition, we can see
that it is possible to substitute the Gerund Clause with the noun phrase [the careful preparation].
Because Gerund Clauses are taken as subordinate structures, it is vital that we take a closer look at their uses
in Complex Sentences.
Demonstration
It is interesting to observe the use of Gerund Clauses in a variety of texts in English. For instance, the
presence of these types of non-finite subordinate clauses can be found in technical and informational texts,
such as the one below. 
Some NYC School Principals Continue to Urge Masking Despite Rule Lifting by Adam Staten on 3/8/22 at
5:40 PM ESTSome schools in New York City are urging students to continue wearing masks in school
despite the city's mayor lifting the mask mandate in classrooms.The principal at Brooklyn Collaborative
Studies, Priscilla Chan, reportedly sent an email recently asking students to continue wearing masks in
school, according to multiple outlets.This urging to continue masking up comes even after Mayor Eric
Adams removed the mask mandate for those in schools in an announcement on Friday. In his
announcement, speaking in Times Square, Adams called it an "Arnold Schwarzenegger moment," saying
"we'll be back," according to the mayor's office […]
(NEWSWEEK, 2022)
Consequently, learning howto identify Gerund Clauses in texts can pave the way for a more thorough
understanding of the pieces of information present in a variety of written materials in the English language. 
Theory in practice
Translating theory into practice! 
Conteúdo interativo
Acesse a versão digital para assistir ao vídeo.
Hands on
Question 1
Read the sentence below:
 
“Investigating war crimes is a noble activity in some countries.”
 
Which of the structures below can be used in place of the gerund clause highlighted in the sentence?
A
The investigation of war crimes.
B
Investigators of war crimes.
C
Investigative war crimes.
D
Investing in war crimes.
E
Investors of war crimes.
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund Clause [Investigating war crimes] operates as a noun. Consequently, it may be replaced by a
similar noun structure with the same meaning. In the case above, the idea of investigating is best
represented by the word "investigation", which is the case of option [A].
Question 2
Read the text below:
 
“Breathing Exercises for COVID Recovery by Soo Kim on 3/4/22 at 7:00 AM EST
Breathing comes naturally and easily when our lungs are healthy. However, shortness of breath and difficulty
breathing are among the symptoms of COVID-19 that can linger for some patients after recovering from the
virus.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
Which of the structures below can be used to replace the gerund clause highlighted in the sentence?
A
The removal of the virus.
B
The recovery from the virus.
C
The renewal of the virus.
D
The request from the virus.
E
The recollection of the virus.
A alternativa B está correta.
The Gerund Clause [recovery from the virus] operates as a noun. Consequently, we should be able to
replace it with a similar noun structure with the same and/or closer meaning. In the case above, the idea of
recovering is best represented by the word "recovery", which is the case of option [B].
Question 3
Read the text below:
 
“Man Claims His Teen Makes More Than Teacher Wife With Master's by Amanda Spence on 2/9/22 at 12:28
PM EST
A man [1] has taken to Reddit claiming his teenage son [2] makes more than his wife, who is a preschool
teacher with a master's degree. The reveal has garnered a lot of reactions from people who [3] sympathized
with the woman's plight.
The now-viral Reddit post was shared to the subreddit "Antiwork" on February 8 by u/ghart999. It's entitled,
"My 16-year-old [4] makes more than my wife who's a preschool teacher with a master's degree." The post
has [5] received over 20,000 upvotes in less than 24 hours.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
Which of the elements highlighted in the text is an example of a non-finite verb form?
A
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
A alternativa E está correta.
Gerunds, infinitives, present participles, and past participles are examples of non-finite forms in the English
language. Out of the highlighted elements in the text, only item [5] = received = Past Participle can be
classified as a non-finite form. The other items are finite forms since they provide information on the
present tense ([1], [2], and [4]) and past tense ([3]).
Question 4
Read the text below:
 
“Dad Calls Out School's 'Lack of Transparency' With Social Justice Lesson by Carly Mayberry on 2/4/22 at 8:01
PM EST
A father of an Oregon elementary school student has [sought] legal counsel following the removal of his child
without his permission from her classroom during lessons of a social justice curriculum initiative.
After previously filing a complaint concerning what Jeff Myers described as a "lack of transparency" about
Errol Hassell Elementary School's 21-Day Social Justice Challenge, Myers filed a separate complaint after his
daughter was pulled out of her classroom and told [to sit] in the hallway with a book during one of the social
justice lessons. When his daughter [asked] why she [had] to sit outside, her teacher [told] her that her father
had requested it.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
How many non-finite verb forms have been highlighted in the text?
A
5
B
4
C
3
D
2
E
1
A alternativa D está correta.
Non-finite forms comprise infinitives, present and past participles, and gerunds. In the text, there are only
two non-finite forms, namely SOUGHT and TO SIT, which are examples of, respectively, a Past Participle
and Infinitive. The other highlighted items are finite forms concerning the Simple Past Tense.
Question 5
Read the sentence below:
 
“Anna normally gives reflecting upon her problems some of her free-time.”
 
Which of the structures below can be used in the place of the gerund clause highlighted in the sentence?
A
Refinement of her problems.
B
Reflection on her problems.
C
Reinforcement of her problems.
D
Revision of her problems.
E
Restoration of her problems.
A alternativa B está correta.
The Gerund Clause [reflecting upon her problems] operates as a noun. Consequently, it may be replaced by
a similar noun structure with the same meaning. In the case above, the idea of reflecting is best
represented by the word "reflection", which is the case of option [B].
Question 6
Read the text below:
 
“Try These 15 Products for a Calmer You by Nancy Dunham on 3/6/22 at 10:30 AM EST
You don't need to suffer a traumatic event to feel stressed. Driving kids to activities, juggling the various
personalities at work, and maintaining a home are just a few of life's daily challenges that can send blood
pressures soaring.”
Adapted from: newsweek.com
 
The highlighted Gerund Clauses in the text have the same function. Which one?
A
Subject Complement.
B
Direct Object.
C
Indirect Object.
D
Adverb.
E
Subject.
A alternativa E está correta.
The three Gerund Clauses are placed before the main verb phrase (i.e., ARE), which is the typical position
subjects are normally found. Consequently, all of them function as subject.
Gerund Clauses - A type of non-finite clause
Gerund clauses are finite or non-finite clauses? Still don’t know? This video will definitely clarify your doubts.
Conteúdo interativo
Acesse a versão digital para assistir ao vídeo.
Learning Check
Question 1
When we analyze the structure of sentences in English, one vital step refers to checking if a gerund structure
is present. Bearing this piece of information in mind, consider the following sentence:
 
“My students enjoy reading books on folktales weekly.”
 
Which of the elements present in the sentence above contains a Gerund structure?
A
My students
B
enjoy
C
reading books
D
on folktales
E
weekly
A alternativa C está correta.
Gerund structures are formed by using the base form of a verb + ing. They are used to perform the typical
functions of nouns. In the example above, the structure [reading books] functions as the direct object of the
transitive verb enjoy.
Question 2
Verbal structures can be understood as possessing two forms: finite vs. non-finite. The choice of which of
them to be used in a sentence depends on the type of information to be communicated. Based on the
previous line of thought, consider the following text:
 
“How Do Sharks Sleep? With Both Eyes Open, Scientists Discover by Robyn White on 3/8/22 at 7:01 PM EST
Sharks sometimes [1] sleep with both of their eyes open, scientists [2] have discovered.
Scientists already [3] know that sharks do not sleep or rest in the same way mammals do. For example, some
sharks must swim constantly, even during sleep, in order [4] to keep oxygen-filled water flowing over their
gills. This [5] means they probably enter a state of "rest" rather than sleep.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
Which of the elements highlighted in the text is an example of a non-finite verb form?
A
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
A alternativa D está correta.
Gerunds, infinitives, present participles and past participles are examples of non-finite forms in the English
language. Out of the highlighted elements in the text, only item [4] = to keep = infinitive can be classified as
a non-finiteform. The other items are finite forms since they provide information on tense (present).
2. The Characteristics of Gerund Clauses
Gerund Clauses as Complex structures
Complex structures
Gerund Clauses comprise a special group of complex structures in the English language. More specifically,
they belong to the group of subordinate clauses (i.e., dependent structures) which are commonly present in
Complex Sentences.
We are pretty sure the previous paragraph contains a lot of details and vital concepts related to the field of
grammar (i.e., subordinate clauses, dependent structures, complex sentences). Therefore, to pave the way for
an easier understanding of the characteristics and uses of Gerund Clauses, it is vital that we manage to grasp
the way Complex Sentences are formed and how Gerund Clauses can be included in such structures.
Let us briefly focus on the nature of clauses and then explore how clauses can be articulated to form both
Gerund Clauses and Complex Sentences. 
The Nature of Clauses and Complex Sentences
Basically speaking, a clause can be defined as the combination of a subject and a predicate.
Check the definitions below:
While subjects are normally represented by noun phrases ( groups of words forming a unit, whose central
element is a noun or pronoun), predicates rely mainly on verb phrases (= groups of words also forming a unit,
whose main element is a lexical verb) as their base for construction.
The following examples illustrate what has just been presented:
Example (a)
Subject 
The person or thing that is being described,
discussed, or dealt with.
Predicate 
The part of the sentence which
contains the verb phrase and has
information on the subject.
Example (b)
Example (c)
The quantity of clauses, their types, and the set of relations devised in their combinations are the pieces of
information to be considered when classifying sentences.
In a general sense, a sentence can be defined as the combination of one or more clauses. If a sentence
contains only one clause, it is called a simple sentence. All the previous examples (from a to c) are simple
sentences. 
However, when sentences possess more than one clause, one of them is dependent or subordinate
to another one, the structure devised is known as a complex sentence. 
Quirk et al. (2010, p. 987) highlight this partnership between complex sentences and dependent clauses by
stating that “a complex sentence is like a simple sentence in that it consists of only one main clause, but unlike
a simple sentence it has one or more subordinate clauses (= dependent clauses) functioning as an element of
the sentence”.
The kinds of dependent clauses vary in the English language according to the functions they perform. For
instance, dependent clauses can be used to operate as nouns, adjectives, and adverbs.
Consider the following examples:
Example (d)
In sentence (d), the subordinate clause in question is used to provide information concerning time. It is a
clause because it contains both a subject (i.e., 100% of Brazilians) and a predicate (i.e., are vaccinated).
Moreover, it is the presence of the subordinator when that conveys the idea of time.
Finally, it is classified as a subordinate clause since it is dependent on the main clause to make sense.
Example (e)
Sentence (e) is a nice example of a subordinate clause functioning as a noun. What does it mean? It means
that the clause at play (i.e., where you live) could be replaced by a noun/noun phrase, such as your address.
Consequently, the previous Complex Sentence could have been simplified into the following Simple Sentence:
I know your address.
Example (f)
Sentence (f) contains a subordinate clause (i.e., who paid attention to every explanation) which is used to
characterize the subject (i.e., the students): out of the students belonging to this group, only those who paid
attention passed with distinction. Therefore, the subordinate clause could, up to a certain extent, be replaced
by the adjective attentive, which would devise the following sentence structure: The attentive students
passed with flying colors.
As it has already been mentioned, Gerund Clauses belong to the group of subordinate clauses in English.
However, because they are based on a non-finite structure, their use demands special attention. 
Gerund Clauses: Characteristics
By definition, as Carter & McCarthy (2010, p. 905) explain, a gerund is “a word derived from a verb form which
ends in -ing and is used as a noun”. 
Therefore, a Gerund Clause is a non-finite clause which has its verbal structure in the gerund form. 
From the moment we state that gerunds can play the role of nouns, we understand that Gerund Clauses can
perform the typical functions nouns have in a sentence, such as: Subject, Direct Object, Indirect Object,
Subject Complement, Appositive, and so on. Let us see some examples so that the previous pieces of
information become as clear as possible.
If we look closely into every example, we will soon realize that each Gerund Clause between brackets is placed
in a syntactic position typical of nouns. To better visualize this and to even perceive how the same Gerund
Clause could be replaced by a simpler structure, let us then analyze some sentences: 
Example (g)
Example (g) highlights the fact that the Gerund Clause in question is located before the main verb phrase (i.e.,
is). Therefore, the Gerund Clause [Working as a teacher] operates as the subject of the complex sentence. 
Example (h)
Example (h) shows the use of a Gerund Clause [purchasing extra materials] as the complement of a transitive
verbal expression (i.e., can´t stand). Consequently, this subordinate structure must be classified as the Direct
Object in the Complex Sentence.
Example (i)
Example (i) contains the use of a Gerund Clause [practicing jiu-jitsu] as one of the complements of a
ditransitive verb (i.e., give). In English, the Indirect Object is normally located before the Direct Object.
Consequently, the Gerund Clause in question plays the role of the Indirect Object of the Complex Sentence.
Example (j)
In example (j), the main verb is classified as a Linking Verb. This makes the structural element located right
after it play the role of a Subject Complement, which is the function the Gerund Clause [organizing all
materials] is performing.
The identification and classification of the syntactic functions of Gerund Clauses will always depend on the
type of verb present in the main clause. Although we have briefly exemplified the common functions of these
subordinate clauses, we believe some considerations on verbal transitivity should be considered.
Demonstration
The study of subordinate clauses is extremely important, especially when it comes to the development of
students’ communicative competence. One essential aspect related to most subordinate clauses has to do
with the use of specific subordinators, as Carter & McCarthy highlight:
Subordinate clauses are typically introduced by a class of words known as subordinators, which indicate
the semantic relationship between the subordinate clause and the clause it is dependent on.
Consequently, it is the partnership between subordinators and clauses that will allow us to produce
subordinate/dependent clauses in English.
(CARTER; McCARTHY, 2010, p. 558)
The aforementioned semantic relationship is strongly determined by the meaning engendered by the
subordinator at play. Therefore, we may come across some tables connecting subordinators to certain
meanings, as it is shown below:
Subordinating Conjunctions
Comparison
Rather than 
Whether 
As much as 
Whereas
Time
After 
As soon as 
Until 
Whenever
Relative Pronouns
Who 
Whoever 
Whom 
Whomever 
Whose
Concession
Although 
Even though
Place
Where 
Wherever
Manner
How 
As though 
As if
Reason
Because 
Since 
So that 
In order (to) 
As
Condition
If 
Only if 
Unless 
Provided that 
Assuming that
Relative Adjectives
That 
WhateverWhich 
Whichever
Although Gerund Clauses are considered a type of subordinate structure, they are not used in partnership with
subordinating conjunctions. In general, a Gerund Clause will be composed of a verb + ing + complement, as it
is exemplified below:
[Preparing lessons for advanced students] requires a lot of research.
Theory in Practice
Translating theory into practice! 
Conteúdo interativo
Acesse a versão digital para assistir ao vídeo.
Hands on
Question 1
Read the text below:
 
“Russia's Nuclear Threat Produces Panicked Buying of Iodine in Europe by Katie Wermus on 3/2/22 at 1:05 PM
EST
Europeans are rushing to buy iodine pills after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that he was putting
his nuclear deterrent system on high alert during the invasion of Ukraine.
Potassium iodide is used in case of a nuclear emergency to help protect people from [developing thyroid
cancer], according to the New York State Department of Health.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund structure is used to complete the meaning of the preposition [from] in the sentence. Therefore,
this subordinate non-finite clause operates as a Prepositional Complement.
Question 2
Read the text below:
 
“Russia's Nuclear Threat Produces Panicked Buying of Iodine in Europe by Katie Wermus on 3/2/22 at 1:05 PM
EST
Now, people in Central Europe are rushing to buy the medication for a potential nuclear war, but some
pharmacies have already started [selling out], Reuters reported.”
Source: newsweek.com
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa B está correta.
The Gerund structure is used to complete the meaning of the Transitive Verb [start] in the sentence.
Therefore, this subordinate non-finite clause operates as its Direct Object.
Question 3
Read the text below:
 
“Mom Conceives Twice in 5 Days in 'Miracle' Pregnancy, Kids Born on Same Day by Aristos Georgiou on
2/28/22 at 12:17 PM EST
California woman has reportedly become pregnant while already pregnant. Eventually, she gave birth to the
two children on the same day.
Odalis Martinez, 25, from San Pablo, California, was told by doctors that her babies had been conceived five
days apart and weren't technically twins, Kennedy News and Media reported.
Martinez had suffered a miscarriage a few months prior to finding out that she was pregnant in November
2020, after taking a test.”
Adapted from: newsweek.com.
 
How many Gerund Clauses are there in the text above?
A
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
A alternativa B está correta.
Gerund structures are formed by using the base form of a verb + ing. They are used to perform the typical
functions of noun. In the example above, the structures [finding out] and [taking a test] are Gerund Clauses.
Question 4
Read the text below:
 
“Sackler Family Name is Pulled From Yale Despite Large Past Donations by Aaron McDade on 3/11/22 at 6:23
PM EST
Yale University has continued the process of distancing the Ivy League school from the Sackler family, which
includes removing two professorships named for the family.
Yale previously announced it would stop accepting donations from the family that owns Purdue Pharma, the
manufacturer of the pain medication OxyContin, which has been tied to the onset of the opioid epidemic over
the last several decades across the U.S.”
Adapted from: newsweek.com
 
How many Gerund Clauses are there in the text above?
A
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
A alternativa C está correta.
Gerund structures are formed by using the base form of a verb + ing. They are used to perform the typical
functions of nouns. In the example above, the structures [distancing the Ivy League school], [removing two
professorships], and [accepting donations] are Gerund Clauses.
Question 5
Read the text below:
 
“55 Percent of Educators May Soon Leave Field, Citing COVID Burnout: Poll by Nick Mordowanec on 2/9/22 at
5:04 PM EST
National Education Association (NEA) President Becky Pringle was not shocked by a new survey of American
teachers conducted by her organization which found that 55 percent of educators are considering (1) [leaving
the profession sooner] due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This new statistic is a drastic increase from 33 percent who were thinking about (2) [leaving] when polled in
August 2021 and represents a number nearly double when compared to responses published in July 2020.“
Source: newsweek.com
 
The Gerund Clauses highlighted in the text have, respectively, the functions of:
A
Subject and Subject Complement
B
Indirect Object and direct Object
C
Appositive and Adverb
D
Direct Object and Prepositional Complement
E
Adverb and Subject
A alternativa D está correta.
Gerund clause (1) is used after the transitive verb [consider]. Consequently, this Gerund Clause operates as
a Direct Object. Gerund clause (2) is placed after the preposition [about]. Therefore, this second Gerund
Clause is used as a Prepositional Complement.
Question 6
Read the news headline below:
 
“Idaho Fights Teacher Shortage By Offering Them State Health Insurance.”
Source Davis, A., 2/3/22, newsweek.com
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund structure is used to complete the meaning of the Preposition [by] in the sentence. Therefore,
this subordinate non-finite clause operates as its Prepositional Complement.
Gerund clauses: characteristics
Dependent clause, complex structure, non-finite clause...do you still need help grasping the meaning of these
terms? Well, Professor Fellipe Cavallero will help you out! In this video you will learn more about what
characterizes gerund clauses. 
Conteúdo interativo
Acesse a versão digital para assistir ao vídeo.
Learning check
Question 1
When we analyze the structure of complex sentences in English, one vital step refers to checking if a gerund
structure is present. Bearing this in mind, consider the following sentence:
 
“Living in a foreign country is something most people hate experiencing.”
 
How many Gerund Structures are there in the sentence above?
A
1
B
2
C
3
D
4
E
5
A alternativa B está correta.
Gerund structures are formed by using the base form of a verb + ing. They are used to perform the typical
functions of nouns. In the example above, the structures [living] and [experiencing] are Gerunds.
Question 2
Gerund Clauses can be used in place of nouns. Consequently, they can perform typical functions nouns
normally have in sentences. Bearing this piece of information in mind, consider the following sentence:
 
“Most Brazilians are tired of [paying a lot of taxes] every year.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Subject
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Prepositional Complement
A alternativa E está correta.
The Gerund structure is used to complete the meaning of the preposition [of] in the sentence. Therefore,
this subordinate non-finite clause operates as a Prepositional Complement.
3. The Syntactic Functions of Gerund Clauses
Verbal Transitivity 
The kind of transitivity present in verb phrases will determine whether certain complements (subject
complement, object complement, direct object, indirect object) will be necessary or not. Moreover, the piece
of information contained in the lexical verb may also communicate the need for adjuncts (= extra information
concerning time, place, manner, etc.) to be included in sentences.
In general, verbs in the English language,in terms of transitivity, can be classed as follows: 
Intransitive verbs
They are verbs that do not require the use of
complements. However, the presence of certain
adjuncts can be used to add up extra
information in terms of time, place, and manner,
for example.
Transitive and Ditransitive
These are the most recurrent types of verbs.
They demand that objects (Direct and/or
Indirect) be present in the sentence so that it is
grammatically correct. The use of adjuncts
provides more details on the verbal event.
Linking verbs
They are a special class of verbs. When in a
sentence, they require the presence of subject
complements, which will provide details on the
subject. Similarly, the use of adjuncts can also
be articulated.
The following examples will illustrate the classes of verbs and verbal transitivity commonly employed in the
English language:
Example (a)
In Example (a), the verb phrase contains an intransitive verb: happen. It means that the sentence could have
been written without the extra information on place. However, to make communication clearer, the speaker
decided to include this information in the sentence. Finally, because the Gerund Clause is located before the
main verb phrase, it operates as the subject of the sentence.
Example (b)
In Example (b), the verb phrase contains a linking verb: is. Consequently, a direct connection is created
between the subject and the predicate. In this case, the action of writing texts in English is seen as tough
(Writing texts in English = tough). Again, as the Gerund Clause is located before the main verb phrase, it
operates as the subject of the sentence.
Example (c)
In Example (c), the verb phrase contains a transitive verb: hate. Therefore, this kind of verb demands that a
complement be present so that the verb can make sense. Transitive verbs make use of Direct Objects to make
the sentence grammatical. Finally, it is interesting to notice the use of a Gerund Clause [photocopying books]
as the Direct Object of the sentence.
In Example (d), the verb phrase contains a ditransitive verb: give. Ditransitive verbs make use of two objects:
an indirect object and a direct object. The Indirect Object is normally seen as a recipient (i.e., the element to
which something is transferred) and the Direct Object commonly involves what is transferred. In the sentence
above, most of the subject’s free time is devoted/transferred to the action of studying foreign languages.
Consequently, the Gerund Clause [studying foreign languages] functions as the Indirect Object of the
sentence and the noun phrase [most of her free time] operates as its Direct Object.
The Syntactic Functions Gerund Clauses may present depend heavily on the type of lexical verb present in the
verb phrase. However, other issues may influence the functions these non-finite subordinate clauses can
perform in a sentence.
The Syntactic Functions of Gerund Clauses
The expression Syntactic Function refers to the type of relation established between elements in a sentence.
Moreover, it is also used to provide a better analysis of the way sentences are formally structured.
Depending on the nature of the lexical verb used in the verb phrase, as well as other sentential elements,
Gerund Clauses can perform the following functions: 
Subject Subject Complement
Direct Object Indirect Object
Prepositional Complement Appositive
Consider the following sentences:
Example (a)
Example (a) shows the use of a Gerund Clause before the main verb phrase of the sentence. Therefore, this
subordinate non-finite clause functions as the subject of the sentence.
Example (b)
Example (b) uses a linking verb as the central and unique element of the verb clause. When it happens, the
presence of a Subject Complement becomes necessary. Hence, the Gerund Clause, which is placed right after
the linking verb operates as the Subject Complement of the sentence.
Example (c)
Example (c) contains a transitive verb as the main verb of the sentence. When it happens, the presence of a
Direct Object is vital. Because the Gerund Clause is placed after the transitive verb at play, this clause
functions as the Direct Object of the sentence.
Example (d)
Example (d) presents a ditransitive verb as the main verb of the sentence. This fact demands that the
sentence possess two objects: an Indirect Object and a Direct Object. The former is performed by the Gerund
Clause [doing a lot of experiments], while the latter is represented by the noun phrase [most of their academic
time].
Example (e)
Example (e) shows a prepositional verb as the main verb of the sentence. It means that the element used right
after the preposition will be used to complete its meaning (without this element, the sentence grammaticality
and meaning would be jeopardized). Consequently, the Gerung Clause, which is placed immediately after the
preposition on functions as a Prepositional Complement.
Example (f)
Finally, example (f) contains some extra piece of information, in the form of a Gerund Clause, placed between
commas. What does it refer to? In the case, the Gerund Clause is used to provide extra information on the
subject. When it happens, this subordinate non-finite structure functions as an appositive.
Besides being common in technical-information texts, Gerund Clauses are also exploited in literary materials. 
Demonstration
Gerund Clauses can be exploited in a variety of textual materials. For instance, they can be employed in
academic texts, such as essays and research papers. Consider the following passage:
Narrative Essay:Annie, over six feet tall, big-boned, decided that she would not go to work as a domestic
and leave her “precious babes” to anyone else’s care. There was no possibility of [being hired] at the
town’s cotton gin or lumber mill, but maybe there was a way to make the two factories work for her. In
her words, “I looked up the road I was going and back the way I come, and since I wasn’t satisfied, I
decided to step off the road and cut me a new path.
(ANGELOU, 1994) 
In the example, the Gerund Clause is used as a Prepositional Complement. Upon using these clauses, the texts
gain a more advanced structure, which indicates a more thorough understanding of the uses of Complex
Sentences in the English language.
Theory in practice
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Hands on
Question 1
Read the sentence below:
 
“[Being successful in business] is a matter of patience and determination.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa E está correta.
The Gerund structure is used before the main verb phrase of the sentence [i.e., is]. Therefore, this
subordinate non-finite clause operates as its Subject.
Question 2
Read the sentence below:
 
“My suggestion would be [completing the basic tasks] first.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa D está correta.
The Gerund structure is used after the main verb phrase of the sentence, which, in case, is a linking verb. In
this sense, the Gerund Clause provides a characterization on the subject. Therefore, this subordinate non-
finite clause operates as the Subject Complement of the sentence.
Question 3
Read the sentence below:
 
“Everybody agreed on my idea of [living abroad] for some time.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund structure is used right after a preposition [i.e., of]. In this sense, the Gerund Clause completes
the meaning of the preposition at play. Consequently, this subordinatenon-finite clause operates as the
Prepositional Complement of the preposition.
Question 4
Read the text below:
 
“Sackler Family Name is Pulled From Yale Despite Large Past Donations by Aaron McDade on 3/11/22 at 6:23
PM EST
Yale University has continued the process of distancing the Ivy League school from the Sackler family, which
includes removing two professorships named for the family.”
Adapted from: newsweek.com.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the text above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa B está correta.
The Gerund structure is used right after a Transitive Verb [i.e., includes]. In this sense, the Gerund Clause
completes the meaning of the verb at play. Consequently, this subordinate non-finite clause operates as
the Direct Object of the verb in question.
Question 5
Read the sentence below:
 
“This paper is devoted to drawing the boundaries between transitive and intransitive verbs in English.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the text above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund structure is used right after a Preposition [i.e., to]. In this sense, the Gerund Clause completes
the meaning of the preposition at play. Consequently, this subordinate non-finite clause operates as the
Prepositional Complement of the preposition in question.
Question 6
Read the sentence below:
 
“Mother Thereza gave [assisting the poor] all the time of her life.”
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the text above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa C está correta.
The Gerund structure is used right after a ditransitive verb [i.e., gave]. When it happens, the Gerund Clause
operates as the Indirect Object of the sentence, since the direct object is placed afterwards.
Syntactic Functions
Do you still need some help with the syntactic functions gerund clauses may perform? To master a language,
you need to practice and practice, so let’s practice!
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Learning Check
Question 1
Verbal transitivity is an elementary concept which is vital to the understanding of the roles each element play
in the structure of sentences. Bearing this information in mind, consider the following sentence:
 
“Starting meetings on time is [rare] in Brazil.”
 
What is the function of the highlighted element in the sentence above?
A
Subject
B
Subject Complement
C
Direct Object
D
Indirect Object
E
Prepositional Complement
A alternativa B está correta.
The adjective [rare] is used after a linking verb. Consequently, it plays the role of a Subject Complement,
providing details on the subject (Starting meetings on time = rare).
Question 2
Because Gerund Clauses can take the same functions of a noun/noun phrase, a good understanding on verbal
transitivity can pave the way for determining their functions in a sentence adequately. Bearing this idea in
mind, consider the following sentence:
 
“You should consider [living abroad] after you master the most important structures of a given foreign
language.”
 
What is the function of the highlighted Gerund Clause in the sentence above?
A
Subject
B
Subject Complement
C
Direct Object
D
Indirect Object
E
Prepositional Complement
A alternativa C está correta.
The Gerund Clause [living abroad] is used after a transitive verb (i.e., consider). Consequently, it plays the
role of a Direct Object.
4. The Use of Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts
Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts 
Literary texts provide great examples of the plethora of linguistic resources which can be exploited in the
expression of thoughts, feelings, and the narration of experiences in a given language.
Since Gerund Clauses refer to a special and complex class of subordinate clauses, it is expected that these
types of structures be present in Literary materials. Although we cannot guarantee all syntactic functions of
Gerund Clauses will be found in different types of literary materials, we may conclude that some functions are
more recurrent than others. Nevertheless, at the end of the day, what matters is being able to identify the
occurrence of Gerund Clauses in poems, narratives, and dramas, as well as the functions they have.
Literary texts are organized in an array of possibilities, which can be investigated and analyzed in terms of:
their structure;
their message;
their style;
their historical-social information;
their composition.
In this section, we will explore and exploit passages of the following literary genres: narratives, dramas, and
poetry with a view to exemplifying how Gerund Clauses can be employed in such texts.
Passages of Literary texts
Gerund Clauses in Folktales
Folktales are traditional oral narratives that have been passed on from generation to generation via word of
mouth. Over the course of time, these stories have been written down by folklorists, anthropologists, linguists,
and other professionals with a view to preserving, registering, and analyzing both the formal and functional
elements these stories possess.
The presence of Gerund Clauses in such types of text can be found in several moments of the narrative. For
instance: 
Example 01 – The Story of Ciccu
Last came the turn of the third fairy. 'This one has a horn slung round him. When he blows at the small
end the seas shall be covered with ships. And if he blows at the wide end they shall all be sunk in the
waves.' So they vanished, without [knowing] that Ciccu had been awake and heard all they said.”
(Lang, A. The Pink Fairy Book, 1889, [sacred-texts.com ]). 
Here we can see the use of a Gerund Clause operating as the Complement of the Preposition without.
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
Example 02 – About Ash Lad
When he reached the opposite shore, he began walking along, scattering the grain here and there.
Finally he managed to lure the ducks into the trough, and then he began rowing back as fast as he could
go.
(Asbjornsen, P. C.; Moe, J. The Complete and Original Norwegian Folktales of Asbjornsen and Moe. Minneapolis: University of
Minnesota Press, 2019, p.4). 
The second example shows the use of Gerund Clauses functioning as Direct Objects of the transitive verb 
began.
Example 03 – Sorfarina
In short, even though he ran back and forth to her many times during the day and tried this way and that,
he wasn´t successful in [getting another answer] from her. Finally he became so angry that he had her
thrown into the empty well, which was in the courtyard. Yet, he kept [running back] to her every second
to say: “Sorfarina, I beg you. Tell me that you regret it.
(Zipes, J. Beautiful Angiola: The Lost Sicilian Folk and Fairy Tales of Laura Gonzenbach, 2006, p.3.)
This third example provides two uses of Gerund Clauses. The first one functions as a Prepositional
Complement of the preposition in, while the second operates as the Direct Object of the transitive verb kept.
Gerund Clauses in Epic Poems
In a general sense, an epic poem involves the creation of a long narrative poem which is typically about the
series of deeds and events relevant to the culture of the poet. The Greeks, the Romans, and The Portuguese,
for example, have provided the world with great examples of such type of literary texts.
The use of Gerund Clauses in these texts can be seen as follows: 
Example 01 – The Odyssey
As for the ties between your father and myself,we’ve been friends forever, I’m proud to say,and he would
bear me outif you went and questioned old lord Laertes.He, I gather, no longer ventures into townbut
lives a life of hardship, all to himself,off on his farmstead with an aged serving-womanwho tends him
well, who gives him food and drinkwhen weariness has taken hold of his witheredlimbsfrom [hauling
himself] along his vineyard’s steep slopes.
(Homer. The Odyssey, 1997, p. 92.)
The first example shows the occurrence of a Gerund Clause placed right after a preposition. Therefore, this
subordinate structure operates as a Prepositional Complement.
Example 02 – The Epic of Gilgamesh
Is Gilgamesh the shepherd of Uruk-Haven,is he the shepherd...bold, eminent, knowing, and wise
Gilgamesh does not leave a girl to her mother(?)The daughter of the warrior, the bride of the young
man,the gods kept [hearing their complaints], sothe gods of the heavens implored the Lord of Uruk
[Anu]You have indeed brought into [being] a mighty wild bull, head raisedThere is no rival who can raise
a weapon against himHis fellows stand (at the alert), attentive to his (orders),Gilgamesh does not leave a
son to his father,day and night he arrogantly ...Is he the shepherd of Uruk-Haven,is he their
shepherd...bold, eminent, knowing, and wise,Gilgamesh does not leave a girl to her mother(?)
(The Epic of Gilgamesh, 2100 B.C., p. 2.)
The passage above provides two examples of Gerund Clauses. The first is employed to function as the Direct
Object of a transitive verb (i.e., kept). The second is used as a Complement for the Preposition “into”.
Gerund Clauses in Plays
By definition, a drama comprises a “composition in verse or prose intended to portray life or character or to tell
a story usually involving conflicts and emotions through action and dialogue and typically designed for
theatrical performance ” (MERRIAM-WEBSTER, 2022).
The following passages illustrate how Gerund Clauses can be present in these types of literary productions: 
Example 01 – The Tempest, by William Shakespeare
GONZALO: I’ll warrant him for [drowning], though theship were no stronger than a nutshell and as leakyas
an unstanched wench.BOATSWAIN: Lay her ahold, ahold! Set her two courses.Off to sea again! Lay her
off!
(Shakespeare, 1611, Act 1, p. 10)
This example highlights the use of a Gerund Clause right after a preposition (i.e., for). In this case, the Gerund
Clause functions as a Prepositional Complement.
Example 02 – The Tragedy of Hamlet, by William Shakespeare
Now follows, that you know, young Fortinbras,Holding a weak supposal of our worth,Or thinking by our
late dear brother's deathOur state to be disjoint and out of frame,Colleagued with the dream of his
advantage,He hath not fail'd to pester us with message,[By] [Importing the surrender of those lands]Lost
by his father, with all bonds of law,To our most valiant brother.
(Shakespeare, 1603, Act 1, p. 12)
Our second example shows a Gerund Clause being used to indicate how something has been done by an
agent: (by) importing the surrender of those lands. When it happens, the Gerund Clause has an Adverbial
function.
Gerund Clauses in Poetry
In Literature, poetry implies a “concentrated imaginative awareness of experience or a specific emotional
response through language chosen and arranged for its meaning, sound, and rhythm” (NEMEROV, 2021).
Poetry is best visualized in poems, whose form and resources may vary according to a specific school,
tradition, or vogue.
Let us see some examples of Gerund Clauses in such types of text: 
Example 01 – I Felt a Funeral in my Brain, by Emily Dickinson
Emily Dickinson.
I felt a Funeral, in my Brain,
And Mourners to and fro
Kept [treading – treading] - till it seemed
That Sense was breaking through -
And when they all were seated,
A Service, like a Drum -
Kept [beating - beating] - till I thought
My mind was going numb -
And then I heard them lift a Box
And creak across my Soul 
With those same Boots of Lead, again,
Then Space - began to toll,
As all the Heavens were a Bell,
And Being, but an Ear,
And I, and Silence, some strange Race,
Wrecked, solitary, here -
And then a Plank in Reason, broke,
And I dropped down, and down -
And hit a World, at every plunge,
And Finished [knowing] - then –
The Poems of Emily Dickinson: Variorum Edition (Harvard University Press, 1983)
All the occurrences of Gerund Clauses in this poem show their uses as Direct Objects of Transitive Verbs.
Example 02 – Portrait d’une Famme, by Ezra Pound
Ezra Pound.
You are a person of some interest, one comes to you
And takes strange gain away:
Trophies fished up; some curious suggestion;
Fact that leads nowhere; and a tale for two,
Pregnant with mandrakes, or with something else
That might prove useful and yet never proves,
That never fits a corner or shows use,
Or finds its hour upon the loom of days:
The tarnished, gaudy, wonderful old work;
Idols and ambergris and rare inlays, These are your riches, your great store; and yet
For all this sea-hoard of deciduous things,
Strange woods half sodden, and new brighter stuff:
In the slow float of [differing light and deep],
No! there is nothing! In the whole and all,
Nothing that's quite your own.
Yet this is you.
Baldwin, E. Portrait d`une Femme by Ezra Pound. Poem Analysis , 2022.
This second example has the use of a Gerund Clause after a preposition. Therefore, this kind of subordinate
clause operates as a Prepositional Complement. 
Demonstration
Gerund Clauses can be exploited in a variety of literary materials. For instance, they can be found in a common
type of text aimed at children: Fairy Tales. Consider the following passage:
The Wishing-Table, the Gold-Ass, and the Cudgel in the Sack A fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm “At
length he took it into his head to go back to his father, whose anger would now be appeased, and who
would now willingly receive him with his wishing-table. It came to pass that on his way home, he came
one evening to an inn which was filled with guests. They bade him welcome, and invited him to sit and
eat with them, for otherwise he would have difficulty in [getting anything].”
(Brothers Grimm – grimmstories.com)
In this example, the Gerund Clause was used as a Prepositional Complement.
The presence of those types of subordinate non-finite clauses in Fairy Tales demonstrates the need for a
thorough understanding of the manipulation of complex structures in the English language. 
Theory in practice
Translating theory into practice! 
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Hands on
Question 1
Read the sentence below:
 
“To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love; and very lively hopes of Mr. Bingley's heart
were entertained.” (AUSTEN, J. Pride and Prejudice, 1813, Cap. 3 )
 
The highlighted Gerund Clauses in the text have the same function. Which one?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Appositive
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund Clauses are used to complete the meanings of prepositions (i.e. OF, TOWARDS). When it
happens, the gerund clause functions as a prepositional complement.
Question 2
Read the text below:
 
“Winston made for the stairs. It was no use trying the lift.”
Source: Orwell, G. 1984. [1949]. eBook.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Adverb
E
Subject
A alternativa E está correta.
The non-inverted version of the passage containing the Gerund Clause is: Trying the lift was no use.
Consequently, the term [no use] operates as the Subject Complement and the Gerund Clause [trying the
lift] functions as the subject.
Question 3
Read the sentence below:
 
“The man and one of the maids were sent off immediately into Devonshire, to prepare the house for their
mistress’s arrival; for as Lady Middleton was entirely unknown to Mrs. Dashwood, she preferred going directly
to the cottage to being a visitor at Barton Park”.
Source: Austen, J. Sense and Sensibility. 1984. eBook .
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Direct Object
B
Indirect Object
C
Prepositional Complement
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund structureis used right after a transitive verb (i.e., prefer) in the context above. When it
happens, it serves as its Direct Object.
Question 4
Read the sentence below:
 
“He stopped walking, ‘You are an odd one,’ he said, looking at her. ‘Haven't you any respect?”
Source: Bradbury, R. Fahrenheit 451. 1953, p.6.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Direct Object
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa B está correta.
The Gerund structure is used right after a transitive verb (i.e., stop) in the context above. When it happens,
it serves as its Direct Object.
Question 5
Read the sentence below:
 
“Mr. Dashwood’s disappointment was, at first, severe; but his temper was cheerful and sanguine; and he might
reasonably hope to live many years, and by living economically, lay by a considerable sum from the produce of
an estate already large, and capable of almost immediate improvement.”
Source: Austen, J. Sense and Sensibility. 1984. eBook.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Subject
C
Adverb
D
Indirect Object
E
Subject Complement
A alternativa C está correta.
The Gerund Clause is used to indicate the manner through which someone can live many years (i.e., [by)
living economically). Consequently, the Gerund Clause in question has an adverbial function.
Question 6
Read the sentence below:
 
"Mr. Bennet, how can you abuse your own children in such a way? You take delight in vexing me. You have no
compassion for my poor nerves."
Source: Austen, J. Pride and Prejudice. 1813, p. 3.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the sentence above?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Adverb
C
Indirect Object
D
Subject Complement
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund Clause is used to complete the meaning of a preposition (i.e., in). When it happens, the gerund
clause functions as a Prepositional Complement.
Gerund clauses in Literary Texts
In this video professor Fellipe Cavallero will help you identify the occurrence of gerund clauses in literary texts!
A must-see video!
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Learning Check
Question 1
Gerund Clauses can be present in a variety of texts. Chances are these non-finite types of subordinate
clauses will be employed in Literary Texts. Bearing this in mind, consider the following passage from Harry
Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone:
 
THE BOY WHO LIVED
“They didn’t think they could bear it if anyone found out about the Potters. Mrs. Potter was Mrs. Dursley’s
sister, but they hadn’t met for several years; in fact, Mrs. Dursley pretended she didn’t have a sister, because
her sister and her good-for-nothing husband were as unDursleyish as it was possible to be. The Dursleys
shuddered to think what the neighbors would say if the Potters arrived in the street. The Dursleys knew that
the Potters had a small son, too, but they had never even seen him. This boy was another good reason for
[keeping the Potters away]; they didn’t want Dudley mixing with a child like that.”
Source: Rowling, J. K. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. 2000. Chapter 1, p. 2.
 
What is the function of the Gerund Clause highlighted in the passage above?
A
Subject
B
Subject Complement
C
Direct Object
D
Indirect Object
E
Prepositional Complement
A alternativa E está correta.
The Gerund Clause is used after a preposition (= for). Consequently, it plays the role of a Prepositional
Complement.
Question 2
Literary texts offer an opportunity for investigating the uses and functions of gerund clauses in real, authentic
texts. Bearing this in mind, consider the following passage from The Lord of the Rings:
 
THE BOY WHO LIVED
‘You shouldn’t listen to all you hear, Sandyman,’ said the Gaffer, who did not much like the miller. ‘There isn’t no
call to go talking of (1) [pushing] and (2) [pulling]. Boats are quite tricky enough for those that sit still without
(3) [looking further] for the cause of trouble. Anyway: there was this Mr. Frodo left an orphan and stranded, as
you might say, among those queer Bucklanders, being brought up anyhow in Brandy Hall. A regular warren, by
all accounts. Old Master Gorbadoc never had fewer than a couple of hundred relations in the place. Mr. Bilbo
never did a kinder deed than when he brought the lad back to live among decent folk.
Source: Tolkien, J.R.R. The Fellowship Of The Ring. 2004. p. 30.
 
The three Gerund Clauses in the text have the same function. Which one?
A
Prepositional Complement
B
Subject Complement
C
Direct Object
D
Indirect Object
E
Subject
A alternativa A está correta.
The Gerund Clauses are used after prepositions (= of, without). Consequently, they operate as Prepositional
Complements.
5. Conclusão
Considerações finais
In our Unit on Gerund Clauses, we have managed to explore the structures, uses, and functions of these
clauses in the English language.
As we have seen, Gerund Clauses are subordinate clauses based on a specific kind of non-finite structure: the
combination of the base form of a verb + ing. Moreover, we have also shown that these verbal structures can
be used to perform the typical syntactic functions of nouns and/or noun phrases, such as subject, subject
complement, direct object, indirect object, prepositional complement, adverb, and appositives. Moreover, to
better understand how these functions can be found in Complex Sentences, we briefly revised transitivity. 
Finally, the occurrences of Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts – narratives, plays, and poems were analyzed with
a view to illustrating that these subordinate clauses can be present not only in technical/academic texts but
also in literary manifestations of a given language. 
Podcast
In this podcast Professor Fellipe Cavallero will revisit the main topics of the Unit.
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Acesse a versão digital para ouvir o áudio.
 Go Further
If you feel the need to brush your English up, you should check BBC Learning English, available on BBC's
website. It provides many free activities and resources (podcast, radio programs, etc.). Check it out!
 
The engVid website is also a must for those interested in learning more about verbs followed by gerunds and/
or infinitives.
 References
ANGELOU, Maya. Wouldn't Take Nothing for my Journey now. London: Hachette Digital, 1994.
 
BIBER, D.; CONRAD, S.; LEECH, G. Longman Student Grammar of Spoken and Written English. Harlow:
Longman, 2017.
 
CARTER, R.; McCARTHY, M. Cambridge Grammar of English. Cambridge: CUP, 2010.
 
CRYSTAL, D. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language. Cambridge: CUP, 1996.
 
LANG, A. The Pink Fairy Book, 1889, Project Gutenberg, 16 May 2022.
 
LOEWEN, S.; REINDERS, H. Key Concepts in Second Language Acquisition. New York: Palgrave Macmillan,
2011.
 
MERRIAM-WEBSTER. Drama. merriam-webster.com. 3 April 2022.
 
NEMEROV, H. Poetry. Encyclopedia Britannica. 18 Aug. 2021.
 
QUIRK, R. et al. A comprehensive grammar of the English Language. London: Longman, 2010.
 
WIDDOWSON, H. G. Teaching English as Communication. Oxford: OUP, 1992.
	Gerund Clauses
	1. Itens iniciais
	Purpose
	Preparation
	Goals
	Warm up
	1. Non-Finite Clauses and Gerund Clauses
	Finite vs. Non-Finite Clauses
	What are finite clauses?
	Example 1
	Example 2
	Example 3
	Example 4
	What are non-finite clauses?
	Example 5
	Example 6
	Example 7
	Example 8
	1
	2
	3
	Gerund Clauses – A Type of Non-Finite Clause
	Example (a)
	Example (b)
	Example (c)
	Example (d)
	Demonstration
	Theory in practice
	Conteúdo interativo
	Hands on
	Gerund Clauses - A type of non-finite clause
	Conteúdo interativo
	Learning Check
	2. The Characteristics of Gerund Clauses
	Gerund Clauses as Complex structures
	Complex structures
	The Nature of Clauses and Complex Sentences
	Example (a)
	Example (b)
	Example (c)
	Example(d)
	Example (e)
	Example (f)
	Gerund Clauses: Characteristics
	Example (g)
	Example (h)
	Example (i)
	Example (j)
	Demonstration
	Subordinating Conjunctions
	Comparison
	Time
	Relative Pronouns
	Concession
	Place
	Manner
	Reason
	Condition
	Relative Adjectives
	Theory in Practice
	Conteúdo interativo
	Hands on
	Gerund clauses: characteristics
	Conteúdo interativo
	Learning check
	3. The Syntactic Functions of Gerund Clauses
	Verbal Transitivity
	Intransitive verbs
	Transitive and Ditransitive
	Linking verbs
	Example (a)
	Example (b)
	Example (c)
	The Syntactic Functions of Gerund Clauses
	Subject
	Subject Complement
	Direct Object
	Indirect Object
	Prepositional Complement
	Appositive
	Example (a)
	Example (b)
	Example (c)
	Example (d)
	Example (e)
	Example (f)
	Demonstration
	Theory in practice
	Conteúdo interativo
	Hands on
	Syntactic Functions
	Conteúdo interativo
	Learning Check
	4. The Use of Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts
	Gerund Clauses in Literary Texts
	Passages of Literary texts
	Gerund Clauses in Folktales
	Example 01 – The Story of Ciccu
	Example 02 – About Ash Lad
	Example 03 – Sorfarina
	Gerund Clauses in Epic Poems
	Example 01 – The Odyssey
	Example 02 – The Epic of Gilgamesh
	Gerund Clauses in Plays
	Example 01 – The Tempest, by William Shakespeare
	Example 02 – The Tragedy of Hamlet, by William Shakespeare
	Gerund Clauses in Poetry
	Example 01 – I Felt a Funeral in my Brain, by Emily Dickinson
	Example 02 – Portrait d’une Famme, by Ezra Pound
	Demonstration
	Theory in practice
	Conteúdo interativo
	Hands on
	Gerund clauses in Literary Texts
	Conteúdo interativo
	Learning Check
	5. Conclusão
	Considerações finais
	Podcast
	Conteúdo interativo
	Go Further
	References