THE GERUND
A gerund is that form of the verb which ends in –ing, and has the force of a noun and a verb.
As both gerund and the infinitive have the force of a noun and a verb, they have the same uses. Thus in many sentences either of them may be used without any special difference in meaning; as-
Teach me to swim
Tech me swimming
To give is better than to receive
Giving is better than to receiving
The following sentences contain examples of compound gerunds forms-
I heard of his having gained a prize.
We were fatigued on account of having walked so far.
They were changed with having sheltered anarchists.
He is desirous of being praised.
It will be noticed that compound gerund forms are formed by placing a past participle after the gerunds of have and be.
** As both gerund and present participle end in –ing, they must be carefully distinguished.
The gerund has the force of a noun and a verb; it is a verbal noun.
The present participle has the force of a adjective and a verb. It is a verbal adjective.
Examples of gerund-
He is fond of playing cricket.
The old man was tired of walking.
We were prevented from seeing the prisoner.
Seeing is believing.
Examples of participle-
Playing cricket, he gained health.
Walking along the road, he noticed a dead cow.
Seeing, he believed.
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