[ ENG ] GERUNDS: AS SUBJECTS. FORM: [GERUND + (Complement/Adverb Clause) + VERB...]

GERUNDS: AS SUBJECTS

USE:
A GERUND can act as the subject of any verb, instead of a noun or pronoun. We often use Gerunds in this way to make generalizations. The Gerund can stand alone, be followed by a complement (i.e. an object or an adverbial) or by an adverbial clause. FORM:
[GERUND + (Complement/Adverb Clause) + VERB...]


EXAMPLES:
"Smoking is dangerous."
"Eating always makes me sleepy."
"Smoking cigars is very dangerous." (with Complement)
"Playing football makes me thirsty." (with Complement)
"Smoking when you are in a crowded room is inconsiderate." (with Adverbial Clause)
"Not brushing your teeth before you go to bed is bad for your teeth." (with Adverbial Clause)