If you’re not familiar with the term “gerund,” it’s a noun that is created by adding “ing” to a verb.
For example:
Noun: To be
Gerund: Being
Noun: To write
Gerund: Writing
While gerunds are easy to use as simple subjects (Writing is important to me) or as objects (I love writing), they can be a little tricky when possessives (my, your, his, her, our, their) are involved. But if you force yourself to remember that gerunds are nouns, it’s a lot easier.
For example, here are some common errors I encounter with gerunds and possessives:
Are you still confused? If so, replace “being at the party” with another noun, let’s say “poisonous snake,” and see which sounds correct:
Here’s another example:
Are you still making a face at your screen? If so, try replacing “taking the time to write this post” with another noun, let’s say “health,” and see which sounds correct:
When you switch out the gerund for a simpler noun, the correct answer jumps out at you, right? Gerunds aren’t always easy, so I use that trick all the time. When in doubt, switch it out! If you do, your ear should tell you which way to go.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
-Maria
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