Six Common Uses of the "-ing" Form

This was copied on January 3, 2024 from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/grammar/verbforms

1. The "-ing" form is used in progressive verb tenses with auxiliary verbs (helping verbs). These are in active voice. Here are some examples:

• I am doing my homework.

• I have been writing all day.

• I was writing when the pizza arrived.

2. The "-ing" form can function as a noun. These nouns are called gerunds and can be the subject of a clause, followed by a third-person singular (he/she/it) form of the verb. The gerund in the following sample sentences is bolded, and the verb is italicized:

• Writing is an important skill.

• Hiking is one of my favorite activities.

• Reading before bed helps me fall asleep.

3. The "-ing" noun (or gerund) can be the direct object of certain verbs. Some verbs that are followed by a gerund are the following:

• Admit

• Avoid

• Consider

• Deny

• Discuss

• Practice

• Recall

• Suggest

The verb in the following sample sentences is italicized, and the gerund is bolded:

• He often avoids answering his phone.

• I considered conducting semistructured interviews.

• She suggested taking notes.

4. The "-ing" form is used after a preposition. The preposition in the following example sentences is italicized, and the "–ing" is bolded:

• Before conducting the research, it is necessary to complete a literature review.

• Her experience in interviewing will be beneficial.

• He is bad at remembering appointments.

• They complained about driving in rush hour.

5. Adjectives are sometimes formed using "-ing". The "-ing" in the following example sentences is bolded:

• I read an interesting book.

• The barking dog was annoying.

6. The "-ing" form is sometimes used to include additional information in a sentence in a reduced relative clause. The "-ing" in the following example sentences is bolded, and the full relative clause is italicized:

• The woman wearing a dress is sitting by the window. (The woman who is wearing a dress is sitting by the window.)

• The pens sitting on the desk belong to the teacher. (The pens that are sitting on the desk belong to the teacher.)