Gerund Constructions: Understanding and Applying Singular Verb Agreement

The concept of gerund constructions is fundamental in mastering English grammar, particularly in how they function as nouns within a sentence. A gerund involves the use of a verb form ending in -ing that serves various roles in a sentence. This article explores the formation, function, and special rules associated with gerunds, especially when it comes to singular verb agreement.

Key Points about Gerunds

Form

Gerunds are formed by adding -ing to the base form of a verb. For example:

Run → running Read → reading

Function

Gerunds can serve multiple roles within a sentence:

Subject: The action expressed by the verb is the subject of the sentence. Example: Dancing is my favorite hobby. Object: The action of the verb is the receiver of the action. Example: I love dancing. Complement: Completes the meanings of other parts of the sentence. Example: My favorite activity is swimming. Object of a preposition: Used after a preposition. Example: I have a plan for picking up the kids.

Singular Verb Agreement in Gerund Constructions

The most critical aspect of using gerunds is the requirement for singular verb agreement. Even though a verb ending in -ing is used, it functions as a single unit, akin to a singular noun. Therefore, the verb that follows a gerund should be singular.

Examples

Correct: Dancing is enjoyable. Incorrect: Dancing are enjoyable.

The reason for this singular agreement is that a gerund represents a single action or activity, similar to how other singular nouns like water or rice are treated. Both are uncountable nouns and thus require a singular verb.

Understanding Uncountable Nouns

Uncountable nouns are those that cannot be counted or divided into individual items. They are often abstract concepts or substances. These nouns do not have a plural form, nor do they change when the article or context changes to suggest quantity. Instead, they always take singular verbs.

Uncountable nouns: Water Rice Dancing

For example, consider the sentence:

Correct: Their dancing was spectacular.

Rules for Subject-Verb Agreement with Gerunds

To further understand the singular verb agreement, it helps to recognize that the subject is always singular unless it falls into one of the following categories:

Plural count nouns: Books, people, children, fish, etc. Plural subject pronouns: We, you, they, etc. Compound subjects: Jack and Jill, hunting and fishing, etc. Geographical names that are plural: The Great Lakes, the Rockies, etc. Gerund subjects: Studying is, cooking is, etc. Infinitive subjects: To be or not to be is the question, etc. Clausal subjects: That John loves Jill is, where the twins live is, whatever Lola wants, Lola gets, etc.

By adhering to these rules, one ensures grammatical correctness when using gerunds, giving clarity and coherence to the message being conveyed.