Name_________________________
Period_____
GERUND PHRASES
A gerund phrase is a group of words which contains a gerund and any modifiers and complements. Remember that a
gerund looks like a verb but is used as a noun, and gerunds always end in –ing.
Examples:
(Holding conferences) takes much of his time.
SUBJECT
Mr. Lane remembered (having held long conferences.)
DIRECT OBJECT
His greatest enjoyment is (holding long conferences.)
PREDICATE NOMINATIVE
His Job, (conducting sales conferences,) is interesting to him.
APPOSITIVE
Mr. Lane’s efficiency in (conducting conferences) is appreciated.
OBJECT OF A PREPOSITION
Enclose the gerund phrase in parentheses and underline the gerund. On the line to the right, state its use in the
sentence.
1. Securing fire for mortals was the task of Prometheus.
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2. The story of his lighting a torch from the sun is mythical.
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3. Fire has always been used for providing many necessities of life.
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4. A part of various primitive religions was worshipping fire.
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5. Many beliefs advocated bowing with reverence before a fire.
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6. Who is responsible for having lighted the first fire?
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7. The importance of fire in furnishing power is apparent.
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8. Operating a car really depends upon the magic of fire.
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9. Power is created by igniting gasoline vapor with an electric spark.
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10. One feat of Boy Scouts is building a fire without matches.
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11. You have probably read about an adventurer’s being lost in the woods.
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12. One trick, starting a fire with two sticks, is extremely difficult.
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13. Many a camper recalls having been caught without matches.
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14. By striking a knife against flinty stone, one can make sparks.
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15. Catching the sparks on dry, inflammable material kindles a fire.
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16. We shall enjoy knowing how to kindle a fire.
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17. One cause of disastrous fires is misusing flammable liquids.
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18. Another cause, handling matches carelessly, should not be ignored.
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19. There are several methods of extinguishing fires.
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20. A fire may be extinguished by interrupting its supply of oxygen.
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21. Prohibiting smoking at filling stations is a wise precaution.
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22. There is wisdom in requiring fire drills at school.
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23. One should appreciate having been warned about fire hazards.
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