The Functions of the Gerund in the Sentence
The Gerund can be:
The Subject
| It | is was | no use useless no good | doing smth | ||
| There | is was | no doing smth | |||
| Doing smth | does smth did smth will do smth would do smth | ||||
e.g. It’s no use arguing.
It was no good objecting.
Talking mends no holes.
There is no hiding these facts.
There was no going back.
The Predicative
| The main thing Smb’s wish Smb’s job Smb’s duty | is / was doing smth |
| to feel like (up to) to be for / against | doing smth |
e.g. The main thing is getting there in time.
Her job was looking after the children.
I don’t feel like going to the theatre.
Are you for or against staying there?
Also:
a. part of a compound verbal modal predicate with verbs and verbal phrases expressing modality: intend, expect, want, like, feel like, detest, dislike, can’t help, can’t bear / stand, etc. (She intends going there in summer. He couldn’t help admiring the picture.)
b. part of a compound verbal aspect predicate with verbs denoting the beginning, the duration, or the end of the action such as begin, start, go on, keep on, cease, finish, quit, commence, stop, give up, carry on, proceed, resume, continue, etc. (In the night it started raining. He resumed walking. He kept on looking behind.)
The Direct Object
| admit anticipate avoid consider delay deny enjoy escape excuse fancy (imagine) forgive involve mind postpone prevent regret remember resent resist risk suggest, etc. to be worth | doing smth |
| e.g. The film is worth seeing. He admitted taking the money. Sometimes I enjoy being alone. | |
The Prepositional Object
| to think of to suspect smb of to accuse of to be afraid of to object to to be used to to succeed in to be engaged in to insist on to depend on to apologize for to be grateful for to be responsible for to thank smb for to blame smb for to be clever at to prevent smb from, etc. | doing smth being done having done smth having been done |
e.g. He apologized for coming late.
She insisted on being treated like a grown woman.
I hope you don’t object to our singing.
We are engaged in discussing this problem.
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The Attribute
| intention plan idea point sense purpose habit good harm mistake difficulty way opportunity advantage / disadvantage cause |
of doing smth | ||
| There is no (little) Smb sees no (little) | sense harm difficulty point danger | in doing smth | |
e.g. She had no intention of staying.
I don’t like his habit of making people wait.
There is no harm in asking her again.
There is little point in refusing.
The Adverbial Modifier
| on (upon) after before by through because of without in spite of despite instead of at | doing smth |
e.g. She locked the door before going to bed.
He left without saying good-bye.
Before going to the station I had to telephone my office on business.
In spite of being ill, he came to the final discussion.
She frightened her father by bursting into tears.
The Gerundial Complex
The Gerund can have a subject of its own different from that of the sentence. In this case the Gerund and its subject form a construction called the Gerundial Complex. The relations between the elements of the complex are predicative. The first element of the complex may be expressed in a number of ways: by a noun in the common case, a noun in the possessive case, a pronoun in the objective case, a possessive pronoun.
| boy’s boy my me | doing smth being done |
The Gerundial complex has practically the same syntactical functions as the gerund.
Syntactical Functions of the Gerundial Complex
The Subject
| It | is was | no use useless no good | Smb’s doing smth |
| Smb’s doing smth | does smth did smth will do smth would do smth | ||
e.g. It is useless your going there immediately.
His saying this made all the difference.
His being a foreigner and an ex-enemy was bad enough.
The Predicative
| to be for / against | smb’s doing smth |
e.g. I’m against your going there alone.
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He was for your staying there for two more days.
The Direct Object
| admit anticipate avoid consider delay deny enjoy escape excuse fancy (imagine) forgive involve mind postpone prevent regret remember resent resist risk suggest, etc. to be worth | smb’s doing smth |
e.g. Do you mind my closing the window?
I don’t like his coming late.
The Prepositional Object
| to think of to suspect smb of to accuse of to be afraid of to object to to be used to to succeed in to be engaged in to insist on to depend on to apologize for to be grateful for to be responsible for to thank smb for to blame smb for to be clever at to prevent smb from, etc. | smb’s doing smth |
e.g. Much depends on your taking the job.
The teacher insisted on my coming in time.
She apologized for her being late.
The Attribute
| intention plan idea point sense purpose habit good harm mistake difficulty way opportunity advantage / disadvantage cause |
of smb’s doing smth | ||
| There is no (little) Smb sees no (little) | sense harm difficulty point danger | in smb’s doing smth | |
e.g. I had no idea of your being there.
There is little sense in your staying here just now.
The Adverbial Modifier
| on (upon) after before by through because of without in spite of despite instead of at | smb’s doing smth |
e.g. All that was after their leaving the place.
They waited in spite of our being late for an hour or so.
Exercises
Exercise 1
Study the use of the gerund in the following sentences.
1. After such verbs as: mind, suggest, keep, enjoy, avoid, imagine / fancy
a. Do you mind shutting the window?
b. I suggested going by sea but he wouldn’t hear of it.
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c. He keeps asking me the time and I keep telling him to buy himself a watch.
d. Do you enjoy listening to records?
e. Try to avoid reading in a bad light.
f. Imagine /fancy watching television for forty hours a week.
2. After “phrasal” verbs
a. He went on talking, although no one was listening to him.
b. She gave up driving a car after the accident.
c. He received a letter a fortnight ago, but he put off answering it until yesterday.
3. After such word combinations as: be worth, be no use, be busy, can’t help, feel like, what about? Etc
a. These shoes are so old they aren’t worth keeping.
b. It’s no use crying over spilt milk.
c. He is busy looking for the books for his report.
d. I can’t help sneezing; I caught a cold yesterday.
e. I don’t feel like going there.
f. What about staying at home next weekend?
4. After verbs, adjectives or abstract nouns followed by prepositions
a. I wanted to walk, but my friends insisted on going there by bus.
b. He tried very hard, and at last he succeeded in getting a good mark.
c. I’m very sorry for being late.
d. We got tired of waiting for the weather to clear and finally decided to set out in the rain.
e. I have no intention of going to that film.
f. There is no point in arriving half an hour early.
5. After prepositions
a. He still walks five miles a day in spite of being seventy years old.
b. He walked to the station instead of going by bus.
c. He went to bed last night without turning off the light.
Now give your own examples to illustrate the usage of the gerund.
Exercise 2
Put the verbs in brackets into the gerund.
1. My watch keeps (to stop). – That’s because you keep (to forget) to wind it.
2. Would you mind (to lend) me ten pence? I want to make a phone call.
3. I suggest (to telephone) the hospitals before asking the police to look for him.
4. Why do you keep (to look) back?
5. He kept (to ring) up and (to ask) for an explanation and she didn’t know what to do about him.
6. Try to avoid (to be) late. He hates to be kept (to wait).
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7. The taxi-driver tried to stop in time, but he couldn’t avoid (to hit) the old woman.
8. He offered to buy my old car, if I didn’t mind (to wait) a month for the money.
9. Imagine (to have) to get up at five a. m. every day!
10. At first I enjoyed (to listen) to him, but after a while I got tired of hearing the same story again and again.
11. I keep (to try) to make mayonnaise but I never succeed.
12. He suggested (to call) a meeting and (to let) them decide the matter themselves.
13. Imagine (to keep) a snake as a pet!
14. We suggested (to sleep) in hotels but the children were anxious to camp out.
Exercise 3
Put the verbs in brackets into the gerund.
1. Please go on (to write); I don’t mind waiting.
2. The baby started crying when he woke up, and went on (to cry) all the morning.
3. The teacher was angry and said,” If you keep on (to interrupt) me, I’ll send you out of the class”.
4. He didn’t want to lose any more money, so he gave up (to play) cards.
5. It’s no use (to wait).
6. Try to forget it; it isn’t worth (to worry) about.
7. It’s no use (to have) a bicycle if you don’t know how to ride it.
8. There are people who can’t help (to laugh) when they see someone slip on a banana skin.
9. He refuses to take advice from anyone, so it’s no use (to speak) to him.
10. I intended to go to the cinema yesterday, but my friend told me the film wasn’t worth (to see).
11. What about (to buy) double quantities of everything today? That will save shopping again later in the week.
12. I promised to come early, but I couldn’t help (to be) late.
13. When I came he was busy (to write) a letter to his friend.
14. Let’s go for a swim.-What about (to go) for a drive instead?
15. I didn’t feel like (to work) so I suggested spending the day in the country.
16. It’s no use (to ask) children to keep quiet. They can’t help (to make) a noise.
17. Why didn’t you warn him? – It’s no use (to warn) him.
18. Where is Ann? - She’s busy (to do) her homework.
19. Do you feel like (to go) to a film or shall we stay at home?
Exercise 4
Put the verbs in brackets into the gerund
1. There is no point in (to remain) in a dangerous place if you can’t go to help the people who have to stay here.
2. At first I enjoyed listening to him but after a while I got tired of (to hear) the same.
3. He didn’t leave the house because he was afraid of (to meet) someone who would recognize him.
4. You’ll soon get used to (to sleep) by the phone.
5. He expects me to answer by return but I have no intention of (to reply) at all.
6. I am tired of (to do) the same thing time after time.
7. I’m not used to (to drive) on the left.
8. There was no way of (to get) out of the building except by climbing down a rope.
9. Would you like me to turn down the radio a bit? – No, it’s all right. I’m used to (to work) with the radio on.
10. I want to catch the 7 a. m train tomorrow. – But you are not good at (to get) up early, are you?
11. My father thinks I’m not capable of (to earn) my own living, but I mean to show him that he is wrong.
12. I called at his house on the chance of (to see) him.
13. She caught a bad cold, because she isn’t used to (to sleep) with her windows open.
14. I wanted to pay the bus fares, but my friend insisted on (to pay).
15. The little boy got tired of (to play) alone.
16. The police accused him of (to set) fire to the building.
17. The inspector asked to see my ticket and when I wasn’t able to find it he made me buy another. – He probably suspected you of (to try) to travel without one.
18. I tried to convince him that I was perfectly capable of (to manage) on my own, but he insisted on (to help) me.
19. I’m delighted to hear that you can come on Saturday. We are looking forward to (to see) you.
20. What’s your idea of (to do) it?
Exercise 5
Put the verbs in brackets into the gerund.
1. Don’t forget to lock the door before (to go) to bed.
2. After (to walk) for three hours we stopped to let the others catch up with us.
3. Before (to give) evidence you must swear to speak the truth.
4. Without (to realize) it, he hindered us instead of (to help) us.
5. After (to hear) the conditions I decided not to enter for the competition.
6. She rushed out of the room without (to give) me the chance to explain.
7. Why did you go all round the field instead of (to walk) across it?
8. After (to spend) a week in the cottage, he decided that he didn’t really enjoy living in the country.
9. You should clean your teeth before (to go) to bed.
10. Please don’t enter the room without (to ask) permission.
11. I suggest telephoning the hospitals before (to ask) the police to look for him.
12. By (to neglect) to take ordinary precautions he endangered the life of his crew.
13. After (to spend) two days arguing about where to go for their holidays, they decided not to go anywhere.
14. He surprised us all by (to go) away without (to say) “Good-bye”.
15. The girls sat watching television instead of (to help) her mother.
Exercise 6
Study the following examples:
1. His hair is very long; it needs cutting. (i.e. His hair needs to be cut. Here the gerund has a passive meaning.)
2. The grass in the garden is very dry; it wants watering badly. (i.e. The grass wants (needs) to be watered.)
Open the brackets using the gerund.
1. The windows are very dirty; they need (to clean).
2. It’s very hot so you don’t need (to bring) a coat.
3. The house is old, and it badly wants (to paint).
4. The famous man didn’t need (to introduce) himself.
5. The floor is covered with dust; it needs (to sweep).
6. The planners didn’t realize they would need (to build) so many houses.
7. This shirt is quite clean; it doesn’t want (to wash) yet.
8. Her shoes have a hole in them; they want (to mend).
9. The room was in a terrible mess; it needed (to tidy up).
10. The baby is crying; I think he needs (to feed).
11. I know my hair wants (to cut) but I never have time to go to the hairdresser’s.
12. John needed (to cheer up) when he heard that he’d failed his exams.
13. You should tidy the garden.- Yes, it needs (to tidy). The roses want (to water), the peaches want (to pick), the grass wants (to cut).
Exercise 7
Study these sentences:
1. He likes driving a car, but he dislikes being driven. ( driving-active form, being driven-passive form)
2. The fisherman went home soon after sunset without having caught a single fish. (having caught-perfect)
3. The watch was still going in spite of having been dropped on a stone floor. (having been dropped-perfect passive)
Open the brackets using the correct form of the gerund
1. After the accident, the injured man recovered consciousness in hospital. He remembered (to cross) the road, but he didn’t remember (to knock down).
2. I’m still thirsty in spite of (to drink) four cups of tea.
3. This carpet always looks dirty, in spite of (to sweep) every day.
4. He didn’t return a book he had borrowed after (promise) to do so.
5. He got into the house by (to climb) through a window, without (to see) by anyone.
6. I think he was foolish to buy a car before (to learn) how to drive it.
7. Peter is a much better chess-player than I am, and he was very surprised when I beat him yesterday for the first time. He isn’t used to (to beat).
8. He went to bed at 9 p.m. in spite of (to sleep) all the afternoon.
9. He complained of (to give) a very small room at the back of the hotel.
10. The little girl isn’t afraid of dogs in spite of (to bite) twice.
11. The little girl didn’t go near the dog; she was afraid of (to bite).
12. The baby went to sleep a few minutes after (to feed).
13. The little girl never gets tired of (to ask) her mother questions, but her mother often gets tired of (to ask) so many questions.
14. They lived in a small town for ten years and then moved without (to make) friends with any of their neighbours.
15. The little boy was punished for (to tell) a lie by (to send) to bed without his supper.
16. Mary was chosen a year ago to act in the school play. She was very pleased at (to choose).
17. Jack doesn’t like boxing. I don’t know if he is afraid of (to hurt) his opponent or of (to hurt) himself.
18. He was taken to hospital unconscious after the accident He died in hospital without (to recover) consciousness.
19. I always treat people politely and I insist on (to treat) politely.
20. She didn’t get out of bed until eight o’clock in spite of (to wake up) at seven.
Exercise 8
State the form of the gerund and its syntactical function. Translate the sentences into Ukrainian.
1. I don’t think the collection of essays is worth reprinting.
2. All of us enjoyed reading your letter.
3. She had the feeling of being watched.
4. I thanked her for having made a list of all the things we ought to take along with us.
5. I hate being disturbed in my seat when the performance has started.
6. She denied having seen them in the shop.
7. After having read hundreds of books I came across one that made me think.
8. Before going to the station I had to telephone my office on business.
9. Swimming every day is a good way of keeping fit.
10. You’ll enjoy being in London.
11. She regrets having said all this to you.
12. She apologized for not telling the truth.
13. There seems no reason for such a society being founded.
14. Which do you like better – reading or being read to?
15. Joe resents being treated like a child.
16. I really object to driving on busy holiday weekends.
17. The guitar needs tuning.
18. She recalled having been taken there when she was young.
19. She has vague memories of having been knocked by a motorbike.
20. The language develops slowly through a number of epochs, by modifying its vocabulary and grammar.
Exercise 9
Point out the gerund and comment on its noun and verb characteristics. Translate the sentences into Ukrainian.
1. Talking about ourselves is what we modern authors have a strong objection to doing.
2. He stopped writing and ran out into the bathroom. He started washing with great speed. He was two minutes late already.
3. It’s silly of me, but I can’t help feeling anxious.
4. I don’t like being lied to – and that, I think, is what you are trying to do.
5. I feel a good deal of hesitation about telling you this story of my own.
6. On hearing the sound Nancy hurried to the door and Grand to the window.
7. He left without having paid the bill.
8. Would you mind waiting a moment in the hall?
9. He denied having opened the box.
10. Writing quickly tires my hand.
11. I remember seeing it on the table.
12. He was accused of having entered the country illegally.
13. I disliked my mother’s interfering in the affair.
14. The boy spent half the night in writing to his people.
Exercise 10
Define noun and verb characteristics of the gerund in the following sentences.
1. It’s natural living like this alone with Nature.
2. Keeping his secret won’t do any harm.
3. All I want is getting to the truth.
4. He had great difficulty in undoing his collar.
5. He did not like the idea of her staying with her father’s people in Capetown.
6. I don’t feel comfortable at Miss Brown’s leaving us so soon.
7. He was good at gathering mushrooms.
8. I kept walking quickly.
9. He was aware of Jack’s watching him attentively.
10. Raymond did not like being called Ray.
11. It was some time before I remembered having met him on the Liston plane.
12. She smiled without showing her teeth.
Exercise 11
Point out gerunds and verbal nouns. Translate the sentences into Ukrainian.
1. Oh, dear, don’t leave us! I’ve so loved being with you.
2. He may have noticed my goings out and comings in.
3. There is no going back now.
4. Remember at school one was always kept waiting for a beating.
5. Now and again came the clear hammering of the woodpecker or the joyless call of a crow.
6. She tried to speak lightly, but there was a lump in her throat and a tightening at her heart.
7. Upon reading this letter he had once more a sense of being exploited.
8. She went quickly past him and out of the room without looking back.
9. He looked at us with a kind of cheerful cunning.
10. He began tidying the room, putting away his clothes and straightening the bed.
11. I have only a candle to see by, so I trust you will excuse my bad writing.
12. He reached his room at midnight so exhausted that, without waiting to light up, he dropped into a chair.
13. He said he was looking forward to meeting you again.
14. And the worst of it is that I shall go on doing exactly I was going to do in the first place.
15. She began talking to the girl behind the bar.
16. Her father took no notice of her comings and goings.
Exercise 12
Comment on the functions of the gerund in the following sentences.
1. Looking after children requires patience.
2. It is no use discussing it now, we must act.
3. It was no good taking the little darling up to town, she got only tired.
4. Seeing is believing.
5. What he loves best in the world is playing football.
6. The main thing to do in this situation is getting away as soon as possible.
7. The car began moving away down the road.
8. Every second he kept glancing at the clock.
9. The kind woman started crying before the boy had finished his sad story.
10. However hard he tried he could not stop thinking about it.
11. He enjoyed teaching and knew that he did it well.
12. Do you mind seeing these photos again?
13. I dislike reminding you continually of the things you ought to have done.
14. I can’t afford buying this expensive hat.
15. He was busy getting ready for his journey.
16. Nobody thought of anything but spending money, and having what they called “a good time”.
17. The idea of setting down in that little town filled her with nothing but regret.
18. He was in the habit of dozing after dinner in his favourite armchair.
19. She knew that there was a danger of falling ill.
20. I walked to my place as fast as I could without breaking into a run.
Exercise 13
State the functions of the gerund in the following sentences, translate them into Ukrainian.
1. It rained for three days without stopping.
2. I couldn’t sleep despite being tired.
3. Having a lot of freedom is very important to me.
4. I’m not interested in discussing your problems.
5. Thomas Edison was well-know for working very long hours.
6. He accused me of having destroyed all his hopes.
7. Can’t you stay? I don’t like being alone in the house.
8. She doesn’t like being taken notice of.
9. After having been taught English for three years, he was now to take up French and Spanish.
10. Despite living in the same street, we hardly ever see each other.
11. He had the advantage of always having confidence in himself.
12. Denying the fact would worsen the situation.
13. It’s no use being sorry now.
14. They had the gift of making you feel at home.
15. The young man didn’t feel laughing.
16. I wanted to go alone but they insisted on coming with me.
17. It’s no use taking advantage of people’s weakness.
18. The constant chatter of the children prevented him from working.
19. There’s no point in having a car if you never use it.
20. I think you should apologize to Sue for being so rude to her.
21. I’m fed up with this work. I’m thinking of trying something else.
22. We have decided against having a new car because we can’t really afford it.
23. I wanted to go out alone but Joe insisted on coming with me.
24. Speaking a language every day is the best way of learning it.
25. Our house needs painting.
26. Crying won’t help matters.
27. We use knife and fork for eating meat.
28. You will only succeed by trying hard.
29. I don’t want to force you into doing something against your will.
30. Being laughed at is never very nice.
31. Travelling abroad can be exciting enough, but just now it is more exciting.
32. She stopped answering my letters and I wondered what the matter might be.
33. Can we recall having mentioned the fact to anyone?
34. Thorpe was terrified, terrified of having to touch something, and even more, of being touched.
35. After having been rejected by dozen magazines, they (the stories) had come to rest in the Globe office.
36. I understand perfectly your wanting to leave.
37. People will talk, there is no preventing it.
38. The host broke the awkward silence by inviting the guests to proceed to the dining-room.
39. This is laying the blame at the wrong door.
40. On being told the news she gave a gasp of surprise.
Exercise 14
Use the gerund from the following list as:
1. subject – continuing, going, riding, keeping, finding
a. Robinson thought at the time that ____ a journal would be an occupation for my mind.
b. My brother always said that ____ is the best exercise.
c. I’m afraid it’s no use ____ this discussion.
d. It’s no use ____ over old ground.
e. ____ him there surprised me greatly.
2. direct object – sitting, opening, hearing, being, doing
a. I remember ____ her complain to Joe.
b. The box was stoutly made and resisted ____.
c. I intend ____ tomorrow.
d. Would you mind ____ over there?
e. Now I had resolved, if possible, to avoid ____ alone with any of these men, these strangers.
c) prepositional object – shaking, stopping, calling, getting, drinking, missing, dealing, being, saying, twisting
1. She was afraid of ____ Miller in the crowd.
2. He was fond of ____ “The superstition of today is the science of yesterday”.
3. Thank you for _____.
4. On the way home Sally insisted on ____ in front of our college.
5. I assure you I am quite capable of ____ with the matter.
6. After that, of course, I have difficulty in ____ of Tom Wells.
7. I am sick ad tired of ____ tea without milk.
8. Surely that prevents the day from ____ ordinary.
9. They were certainly clever at ____ one’s remarks.
3. attribute – eating, coming, getting, reading, going, greeting, discussing
a. The surgery opened at five-thirty, and I made a point of _____ along there quite promptly.
b. The only way of ____ to the dance was on our bicycles.
c. They talked and laughed and shouted, and there was the clatter of knives and forks, and strange sounds of ____.
d. Philip had few friends. Hi habit of ____ isolated him.
e. He could not bare the thought of ____ his situation.
f. There were cries of ____ from a dozen voices and they moved toward her.
g. Philip could never tell lies without embarrassment, and he was scarlet when he finished his explanation for not ____.
4. adverbial modifier of time – hearing, answering, leaving, passing, looking, reading, racing
a. She looked at the paper, after ____ out this question.
b. Before ____, the little old lady grasped his arm.
c. He spent those nights after ____ at his mother’s house in Green Street.
d. He found an endless excitement in ____ at their faces and ____ them speak.
e. Tom considered before ____ .
f. She seemed excited on ____ this.
g. He had looked up at the staircase in ____ and shook his head in a dissatisfied manner.
5. adverbial modifier of manner, attending circumstances or cause – noticing, having, disguising, bringing, answering, working, coughing, laughing, breaking
a. Cindy glanced up, then away, without ____.
b. Lizzie was able to make her own living by ____ at a factory.
c. Eventually John couldn’t laugh for ____ and again, he couldn’t cough for ____.
d. Can’t we even laugh properly without ____ trouble?
e. Was he trying to escape by ____ himself?
f. Major Penny went on without ____ her interruption.
g. We might be fined for ____ the Press along, George.
h. You might run all my life by ____ your promise.
Exercise 15
Read the following extract and comment on the usage of the gerund.
He was out and gone before early daylight, and he moved steadily but slowly over the soft snow. It was grim trekking, grim and slow and heavy. The snow had ceased falling, and the patrols might easily find his tracks again after discovering his fire, but he began a steady bitter plod to the nearest cabin in the Musk-o-gee. If he could keep going, despite his raw blistered legs, his stiffening body, his increasing hunger and exhaustion, he would at least survive. He only wanted the warmth and safety of a cabin. He wanted man-made protection against the ravages of nature.
He was exhausted, and he was beginning to think that he was finished when he saw Indian Bob on the trail. He was surprised to see the Indian, he was surprised to see anything familiar, for the whole world had faded away from him after three days of half-blind trekking and trail-breaking. Full consciousness had deserted him in the painful monotony of keeping himself going, one step and one day after another.
When Roy fell, Bob didn’t help him up but waited while he struggled to his feet, knowing that one touch of assistance would finish Roy completely. Roy also knew it, but he railed at Bob for not helping him up.
Again he lost the reality of his movements, he was only conscious of making each painful glide on his snow-shoes.
(From The Hunter by J. Aldridge).
Exercise 16
Complete the sentences using gerunds.
Model: You must be tired of … - You must be tired of doing the same things day after day.
1. The boy was severely reprimanded for …
2. The public was warned of the dangers of …
3. You seem to be very fond of …
4. Who is responsible for …?
5. You ought to think about …
6. I would never think of …
7. They saw no reason for not …
8. My doctor advised me to give up …
9. We had to put off …
10. That company specializes in …
11. I told him not to bother about …
12. We asked the solicitor for advice before …
13. By …, he ran a risk of …
14. The teacher decided against …
15. On …, he took off his hat.
16. Many people get a great deal of satisfaction from …
17. Closing the factory means …
18. They achieved good results by …
19. The garden is no neglected, it needs …
20. She is a very efficient secretary, she hasn’t got any difficulty in …
Exercise 17
Use the appropriate form of the gerund of the verbs in brackets.
1. (to speak) without (to think) is (to shoot) without aim.
2. Do you know what is peculiar about the English rule of (to drive)?
3. I’m glad to say that the lady didn’t keep us (to wait).
4. I remember (to take) to Paris when I was a very small child.
5. I strongly suspect Gerald of (to know) all about it beforehand, though he swears he didn’t.
6. Excuse me for not (to write) more at the moment.
7. She never lost the power of (to form) quick decisions.
8. He had an air of (to be) master of his fate, which was his chief attraction.
9. She denied (to see) me at the concert though I’m sure I saw her in the stalls.
10. I want to thank her for (to look) after the children while I was out.
11. He passed to the front door and out without (to see) us.
12. I enjoy (to read) poetry.
13. I don’t mind (to stay) here for a little while.
14. Are you going to keep me (to wait) all day?
15. They reproached us for (not to come) to the party; they were waiting for us the whole evening.
16. He suspected her of (to give) the police information about him while the workers were on strike.
17. I sat on the doorstep thinking over my chances of (to escape) from home.
18. There is very little hope of the work (to do) in time.
19. The coat showed evident signs of (to wear) on the preceding night.
20. (to avoid) the use of the perfect gerund is quite common if there is no fear of (to misunderstand).
Exercise 18
Use the correct form of the gerund of the verb in brackets. Translate into Ukrainian.
1. Why do you avoid (see) me?
2. He tried to avoid (see).
3. We insist on (send) him here at once.
4. He insists on (send) there instead of me.
5. Do you mind (examine) the first?
6. He showed no sign of (impress).
7. She showed no sign of (know) them.
8. He had the most irritating habit of (joke) at the wrong moment.
9. I was annoyed at (interrupt) every other moment.
10. He hated (remind) people of their duties or (remind) of his.
11. In (discuss) the problem they touched upon some very interesting items.
12. The equipment must go through a number of tests before (install).
13. The water needs (filter).
14. The matter is not worth (speak of).
15. Excuse me for (give) you so much trouble.
16. You never mentioned (speak) to them on the subject.
17. I don’t remember even (see) you.
18. The boys were punished for (break) the window.
Exercise 19
Complete the sentences with a suitable word. Use each verb (in its gerundial form) once only.
| Have; go; write; use; study; get up; see; travel; smoke; say; learn; do; work; make; look after; pay; live; watch; become; eat; stop; help; walk; go out. |
1. ______ is unhealthy but a lot of people find it difficult to stop.
2. I’m fed up with ______ in the city – it’s too dirty and crowded.
3. He left the hotel without ______ his bill.
4. I ran ten kilometers without _______.
5. I enjoy ______ in the garden at weekends.
6. I was surprised that she left without _______ goodbye to anyone.
7. I’m not really interested in ______ to university.
8. That machine? Oh, it’s used for ______ toasted sandwiches.
9. They don’t like ______ and go everywhere by car.
10. They’ve given up ______ meat.
11. We were able to translate the letter into English without _______ a dictionary.
12. It was a very long journey. I was very tired after ______ on a train for 36 hours.
13. After ______ the same job for ten years, I felt I needed a change.
14. _______ children can be very tiring.
15. We are looking forward to ______ you.
16. They are very keen on _______ how to play chess.
17. _______ television seems to be our national sport.
18. I have decided to stop ______ in the evenings so that I can save some money for my holidays.
19. He is an artistic person – very good at ______ poetry.
20. She is going to continue _____ for another two years, until her exams.
21. They hate ______ early in the morning.
22. Thank you for ______ me organize the party.
23. We love ______ parties.
Exercise 20
Complete the sentences using the –ing forms of the verbs given below. You can use each verb only once.
Talk
Study
Buy
Borrow
Have
Embarrass
Iron
a. I don’t mind my friends _______ my books.
b. When I’ve finished ______, I want to go traveling.
c. I’ve considered _______ my own flat but I can’t afford to.
d. My mother keeps ______ me in front of my friends.
e. I never waste time ______ my clothes: someone else does it for me!
f. Now I’ve got a job, I miss _______ lots of free time.
g. My family always avoids _______ about politics.
Exercise 21
Read the following extract. Choose the correct forms of the words in brackets.
The young author could now do nothing but wait, and under the circumstances, waiting (to mean) torture. His money was all but exhausted; if he (can) not speedily sell the book, his position (be) that of mere pauper. Supported thus long by the artist’s enthusiasm, he (see) the dark side of things. His mother (to write) pressing him to take a holiday “at home”, but he (to dread) the thought of (to go) penniless to his mother’s house, and there (to receive) bad news about his book.
When his last coin (to spend), and he (to have) no choice but to pawn or sell something for a few days’ subsistence, the manuscript (to come) back upon his hands. It (to judge) – declined.
That morning he (to feel) seriously unwell. After (to make) known the catastrophe to Mr. Spicer he (to stand) silent for a minute or two, then said with quiet resolve:
“It’s all up. I (to have) no money, and I (to feel) as if I (to be going) to have an illness. I must say good-bye to you, old friend.”
Mr. Spicer (to insist) on (to lend) him the small sum he (need). An hour or two later they (to be) at St. Pancras Station, and before sunset Goldthorpe (to find) harbourage under his mother’s roof. There he (to lie) ill for more than a month. His doctor (to declare) that he must (to live) in some very unhealthy place, but the young man (to prefer) to explain his illness by overwork. It (to seem) to him sheer ingratitude to throw blame on Mr. Spicer’s house, where he (to be) so contented and (to work) so well until the hot days of late August. Mr. Spicer himself (to write) kind and odd little letters, giving an account of the garden, and earnestly hoping that his literary friend (to be) back in London to taste the Jerusalem artichokes. But Christmas (to come) and (to go) , and Goldthorpe (to be) still at his mother’s house.
( From The House of Cobwebs by G. Gissing)
Exercise 22
Make up sentences, using the gerund after the following verbs:
-stop, finish prevent, avoid, dislike, risk, deny, remember, postpone, enjoy, fancy, imagine, forgive, excuse, suggest, keep, mind, rely, regret, it wants (need ).
Exercise 23
Complete the following using the gerund.
1. We couldn’t even dream of ________.
2. Everybody wished he stopped ________.
3. He is sure to boast of _________.
4. You can’t act without __________.
5. Are English people fond of _________?
6. I hardly remember ________.
7. We don’t often have the chance of ___________.
8. My children are not used to __________.
9. Is there any use in __________?
10. He didn’t care for ________.
11. We all look forward to __________.
12. Everybody disliked the idea of __________.
13. He has given up ___________.
14. What kept you from ____________?
15. Is it worth while _________?
16. The boy kept on _________.
17. What prevented her from __________?
18. The audience enjoyed _________.
19. What do you mean by ________?
Exercise 24
Fill in the gaps in the sentences below with the prepositions from the box.
| About from in like of on |
a) Customers are requested to refrain _____ using mobile phones in this area.
b) She was dreaming _____ becoming an ambassador one day.
c) They are depending _____ him finishing the translation by noon.
d) Quite a few students have succeeded _____ getting A-grades at the exam.
e) After the late night party he didn’t feel _____ going to university.
f) The tutor disapproved _____ his going abroad at this time of the year.
g) The teacher insisted _____ helping John even though he had not asked to.
h) Mike had some trouble adjusting _____ living at a students’ hostel at first.
i) Most students objected _____ having to rewrite the test.
j) They all were looking forward _____ having a holiday at last.
| About at for in of to |
1. John was interested _____taking a course in consecutive translation.
2. Students found guilty _____ cheating at the exam may face serious consequences.
3. She was grateful to the teacher _____ having helped her.
4. She is said to be good _____ simultaneous translation.
5. He is proud _____ having done it at last.
6. The town of Oxford is famous _____ its university.
7. John is not accustomed _____ living at a students’ hostel.
8. They are concerned _____ having failed the exam.
9. She was surprised _____ his having come so late.
10. He was excited _____ seeing his girlfriend soon.
| About from of to |
1. The teacher warned _____ the personal responsibility for attendance.
2. John apologized _____ having been late.
3. She thanked him ______ helping her.
4. Mary was accused _____cheating at the exam and had some serious problems.
5. Those late for the exam shall be prevented _____ entering the classroom.
6. Those suspected _____ cheating at the exam shall be interviewed by the teacher.
7. She can hardly blame him _____ not having done it at such short notice.
8. She would never forgive him _____ not having done it, whatever the circumstances.
9. She planned to devote his abilities _____ writing books.
10. This tutor is in charge _____ providing technical information.
| In for of to |
1. In addition _____ having failed the exam, she had some personal problems.
2. The vote was 10 to 8 in favour _____ electing John.
3. Unfortunately he had no previous experience _____ translating simultaneously.
4. They are going to fail the test anyway, so I don’t see any point _____ writing it.
5. The minimum requirement _____ getting the passing mark was fifty percent.
6. She’d rather stay at the hotel in place _____ going out.
7. In return _____ providing excellent education, the university expects students to work hard.
8. She has had some problems _____ dealing with her boyfriend recently.
9. Students may have different reasons _____having to skip classes.
10. By the end of the school year, she was in danger _____ dropping out – her record was far from being impressive.
Exercise 25
Finish the sentences using gerund with prepositions.
Model: Ken went to bed instead of finishing his work. (finish)
A. I thanked her _____ (lend).
B. I’m excited ______ (go).
C. I’m not accustomed ______ (live).
D. He didn’t feel well. He complained ______ (have).
E. I don’t blame you _____ (want, not).
F. I have a good reason _____ (be).
G. It’s getting late. I’m worried _____ (miss).
H. I’m interested _____ (go).
I. I apologized to my friend _____ (be).
J. I am not used _____ (drive).
K. Nothing can stop me _____ (go).
L. In that office, who is responsible _____ (take care of).
Exercise 26
Fill in the blanks using gerund and prepositions.
1. Alice isn’t interested in (look) _____ for a new job.
2. Henry is excited (leave) _____ for India.
3. You are capable (do) _____ a better job.
4. I have no excuse (be) _____ late.
5. I’m accustomed (have) ____ a big breakfast.
6. Fred is always complaining (have) _____ a headache.
7. The rain prevented us (complete) _____ the work.
8. Instead (study) _____, Margaret went to a ball game with some of her friends.
9. Thank you (help) _____ me carry the packages to the post office.
10. Mrs. Grant insisted (know) _____ the whole truth.
11. He showed us how to get to his house (draw) _____ a map.
12. You should take advantage (go, not) _____ to class yesterday.
13. Everyone in the neighbourhood participated (look) _____ for the lost child.
14. I apologized to Diane (make) _____ her wait for me.
15. The weather is terrible tonight. I don’t blame you (want, not) _____ to go to the meeting.
16. Who is responsible (wash) _____ and (dry) _____ the dishes after dinner?
17. In addition (go) _____ school full time, Sam has a part-time job.
18. The angry look on his face stopped me (speak) _____ my mind.
19. Where should we go for dinner tonight? Would you object (go) _____ to an Italian restaurant?
20. The mayor made another public statement for the purpose (clarify) ____the new tax proposal.
Exercise 27
Complete the sentences with the correct preposition and the correct form of the gerund.
1. After a long time we eventually succeeded ______ (find) a flat.
2. I’ve been thinking ______ (look) for a new job.
3. His parents didn’t approve ______ him _____ (stay) out so late.
4. I wonder what prevented him ______(come) to the party.
5. I’m getting hungry. I’m looking forward _____ (have) dinner.
6. I don’t feel _____(study) today.
7. Forgive me _____ (interrupt) you but I must ask you a question.
8. The arrested man was suspected _____ (break) into a house.
9. Have you ever thought ______ (get) married.
10. I’ve always dreamed ______ (live) on a small island in the Pacific.
11. The cold water didn’t stop her _____ (have) a swim.
12. Have you ever been accused ______ (commit) a crime?
13. She apologized ______ (be) so rude to me.
14. We have decided ______ (buy) a new car.
Exercise 28
Use the appropriate form of the gerund. Insert prepositions where necessary.
1. Now I can boast (to see) Rome and London, Paris and Athens.
2. How did you like the English rule (to drive) on the left side of the road instead of the right?
3. I hate (to be) ill and (to stay) in bed.
4. We all kissed Mother (to go) to bed.
5. I’m not used (to receive) Christmas presents.
6. At every school she went to she learned drawing, besides (to teach) by her father at home.
7. My wife and I look forward (to see) you and Rose.
8. The children had to help (to sweep) and (to clean) the rooms and (to wash up) after meals.
9. The doctor left three different medicines with instructions (to give) them.
10. You can improve your pronunciation (to read) aloud.
11. I went out for a while (to give) the boy the prescribed pills.
12. You can’t act (to feel).
13. I dislike the idea (to spend) a holiday with hundreds of other people.
14. (to ask) about it he said he knew nothing.
15. The silence was broken by the sound of a door (to lock).
16. She walked a little (to leave) her office.
17. I remember (to go) to the British Museum one day.
Exercise 29
Use the appropriate form of the gerund and insert prepositions where necessary
1. Newton, the famous scientist, was sometimes engaged (to work out) difficult problems.
2. “There’s no question (to forgive) you,” he said quickly.
3. Of course, I should insist (to pay) for my work.
4. I wonder if there’s any use (to try) to improve him.
5. We began to speak only when we were out (to hear) of the old man.
6. I insist (to go) there at once.
7. We all suspected him (to learn) it before and (to try) to conceal it from us.
8. They were all busy (to unpack) the books and (to put) them on the shelves.
9. (to hear) the news she ran over to the telephone to inform Gerald at once.
10. But (to make) this request Mr. Dan avoided (to look) in his face.
11. I spent the rest of the time in the hall of the Station Hotel (to write) letters.
12. You can help me (to give) a piece of good advice, you’re old enough to know it better.
13. (to discuss) the plan ourselves we decided to consult Mike’s eldest brother who is in our eyes was an expert.
14. He hesitated a little (to open) a door. He had a feeling that there was somebody waiting for him inside.
15. (to hear) the sound of the door opened downstairs he tiptoed into the corridor and bent over the banister.
Exercise 30
Complete the sentences with the missing prepositions and gerunds. Use the verb in brackets.
Children are always happy _____ (celebrate) holidays, but most American children get specially excited _____ (get) ready for Halloween. Every year in October, children, who usually hate to go to the market begin to get interested _____ (shop). They are eager to pick out a costume and a pumpkin.
Adults who are good _____ (carve) pumpkins cut happy or sad faces in them. With lighted candles in them, the pumpkins become Jack –O’- lanterns, symbols of Halloween.
On October 31, children go trick – or – treating. They never seem to get tired _____ (run) from house to house to fill their bags with candy. Little children are sometimes afraid _____ (go) out on Halloween because of the ghosts and monsters on the streets. Their parents are often worried _____ (save) their children’s teeth from all those sweets.
Exercise 31
Complete the sentences using the gerund form of a suitable verb. To functions as a preposition in every case. Note that the perfect form is required in some sentences.
1. The Prime Minister said he was looking forward to _____ the US President.
2. He should be accustomed by now to _____ English food.
3. The policeman couldn’t swear to _____ the accused man at the scene of the crime.
4. Do you think your father would object to _____?
5. He said he wasn’t used to _____ in public.
6. Having almost run out of money we were reduced to _____in a cheap hotel.
7. He tried to limit himself to _____ ten cigarettes a day.
8. Manufacturers were asked to devote all their energies to _____ exports.
9. We aren’t going. My wife doesn’t feel like to _____ so far.
10. The committee could see no alternative to _____ the plan in its original form.
Exercise 32
Complete the sentences using by + Gerund. Use one of the following:
Borrow too much money;
Break the window;
Drive too fast;
Put some posters up the walls;
Stand on a chair;
Turn a key;
Follow her instructions;
Work day and night;
Slide down ropes made of sheets;
Explain the advantages of my plan;
Tell the truth;
Work regularly.
1. The burglars got into the house ______.
2. I was able to reach the top shelf ______.
3. You start the engine of a car ______.
4. Kevin got himself into financial difficulty ______.
5. You can put people’s lives in danger ______.
6. We made the room look nicer______.
7. We found the house ______.
8. You can improve your English ______.
9. They were able to escape from fire _____.
10. He managed to finish his job in time _______.
11. He surprised us all _______.
12. I tried to persuade him ______.
Exercise 33
Use the gerund instead of the subordinate clauses, insert prepositions where necessary.
1. I remember Mother reprimanded me when I spoiled her favourite fish-cake.
2. We recommended that work should start at once.
3. Thank you that you reminded me.
4. Nick suggested that we should dine at a restaurant to celebrate this little event.
5. He doesn’t like when you interfere.
6. He prevents when I help him.
7. Nobody knew that they had agreed to take part in the expedition.
8. I insist that everything should be said in plain words so that there can’t be any misunderstanding.
9. She dislikes when the children prompt one another and always gets very angry.
10. He wrote he would stay in Paris another week and didn’t explain why he was obliged to do so.
11. I can’t recollect that they ever invited me to stay a weekend with them.
12. He was afraid that the news might cause excitement among the girls.
13. She disliked that he was so stubborn and would never listen to her reasons.
14. Nell denies that he is a bore.
15. I prefer that we should make use of tape-recording before we read the text.
16. We decided that we should join them in Glasgow.
Exercise 34
For each of the following sentences write another sentence as similar as possible in meaning using the verb in brackets together with a preposition and gerund.
1. The customer said that the cashier had tried to overcharge her (accuse).
2. Many people pass their driving tests only at the second attempt (succeed).
3. Concert-goers are asked not to smoke in the auditorium (refrain).
4. The solicitor talked his client out of taking legal action (dissuade).
5. If a customer gets a poor service, you can’t say it’s wrong of him to make a fuss (blame).
6. The hijackers wouldn’t let the passengers leave the plane (prevent).
7. The student said he was sorry that he had missed the previous lesson (apologize).
8. Visitors to the Zoo are not allowed to feed the animals (prohibit).
9. Despite my obvious lack of interest the party bore said he had to tell me the rest of his story (insist).
10. The police think that the owner of the store started the fire himself (suspect).
Exercise 35
Study the examples, and then complete the sentences to make true statements.
- Verb preposition -ing form
I’ve always dreamt of visiting the USA.
I don’t approve of people smoking in class.
1. I’ve always dreamt of _______
2. I don’t approve of ________
3. I always insist on ______
4. I don’t object to _______
5. I worry about ________
6. I’ve never succeeded in ________
Discuss your sentences with a partner.
Exercise 36
There are a few verbs which can take a gerund or an infinitive, but the meaning is not the same. Compare the meanings of these pairs of sentences.
e. g.
1. – I remember meeting him for the first time ten years ago. (I met him in the past, and now I remember.)
– I must remember to meet him at the station this evening. (I have not met him yet; the meeting is in the future.)
2. – She completely forgot answering the letter month ago. (She did answer the letter, and then she forgot that she had done so.)
– She completely forgot to answer the letter. (She didn’t answer the letter, because she had forgotten to.)
Use gerunds or infinitives in place of the verbs in brackets.
1. We read this book in class last year. Do you remember (to read) it?
2. He was very forgetful. He never remembered (to lock) the garage door when he put the car away.
3. Don’t ask me to pay the bill again. I clearly remember (to pay).
4. Did you remember (to book) seats for the theatre tomorrow? – Yes, I have the tickets here.
5. Do you remember (to post) the letter? – Yes, I remember quite clearly; I posted it in the letter-box near my gate.
6. Did you remember (to lock) the door? – No, I didn’t. I’ll go back and do it now.
7. She remembers part of her childhood quite clearly. She remembers (to go) to school for the first time and (to be) frightened and (to put) her finger in her mouth.
8. Did you remember (to give) him the key of the safe? – No, I didn’t. I’ll go and do it now.
9. He forgot (to bring) his exercise-book; he left it at home.
10. Where is my dictionary? Have you forgotten (to borrow) it a fortnight ago?
11. She often told her little boy, ”You must never forget (to say) please and thank you.”
12. Why are you late again? Have you forgotten (to promise) me that you would be never late again?
Exercise 37
Translate from Ukrainian into English.
1. Читання – моє улюблене заняття.
2. Я не прихильник надмірного листування.
3. Вона залишила кімнату, не відповівши на моє запитання.
4. Думаю, що з часом їй буде соромно за свій вчинок.
5. Моя машина потребує технічного огляду.
6. Цей фільм не вартий того, щоб його дивитися.
7. Я не пам’ятаю, щоб коли-небудь бачив його.
8. Прошу вибачення за те, що спізнився.
9. Після плавання він пішов до дому.
10. Єдине, чого я зараз бажаю, щоб мене залишили у спокої.
11. Я не могла не посміхнутися, коли побачила його.
12. Вони почали енергійно працювати.
13. Ми наполягаємо на завершенні дискусії.
14. Почнемо з перевірки письмової роботи.
Exercise 38
Read and translate the sentences with the Gerundial Complex.
1. Some parents don’t approve of their children watching a lot of television.
2. I was annoyed because the decision was made without anybody telling me.
3. You can’t stop me doing what I want.
4. I’m worried about John getting to the airport in time.
5. I can’t imagine your mother’s approving of what you are doing.
6. He is often late. I don’t mind him being late.
7. I don’t enjoy John’s teasing.
8. Please excuse his not writing to you.
9. Listen to those kids. Fancy them being able to speak Spanish as well as that.
10. The job will involve your traveling to different parts of the country, often at short notice.
11. The teacher said that he wouldn’t tolerate my arriving late every day.
12. The question is very trivial, it hardly justifies our taking up any more time.
13. His lawyer insisted on his dropping the case, since it was unlikely to succeed.
14. I vaguely remember him saying something like that.
15. Will the new job involve your being away from home a lot?
16. The public authorities should prohibit people begging in the streets.
17. I strongly resent your telling me to mind my own business.
18. Forgive my mentioning it, but don’t you miss your friends now while you are living in England?
19. The headmaster suggested my trying the examination again the following year.
20. I don’t recollect his actually promising to help you.
Exercise 39
Point out complexes with the gerund and comment on their functions in the following sentences.
1. Do you agree to our taking her up to town and putting her under the best control?
2. His breathing heavily when he greeted her was the result of running up two flights of stairs.
3. Of course I should insist on your accepting the proper professional fee.
4. She was startled by the noise of the outer door being opened.
5. I can’t bear the thought of the children staying there alone.
6. We knew nothing of his being a humorous writer.
7. Your being so indifferent irritates me a great deal.
8. We’ve got a lot of questions to settle before your leaving.
9. What annoyed me most of all was his accepting their proposal quite readily.
10. Nick was very much excited about his favourite cake getting spoiled.
11. I remember in school days he couldn’t answer the teacher’s questions without my prompting him.
12. Don’t think she‘ll approve of your telling me this.
13. His having failed at the entrance examination was a great disappointment to his mother.
14. His uncle insists on my coming to keep him company.
Exercise 40
Supply both the possessive and object form of the words provided. Translate into Ukrainian.
Model: I don’t like _____ asking him to stay. (you) – I don’t like your asking him to stay. I don’t like you asking him to stay.
1. Do you mind ____ smoking? (I)
2. They tried to stop _____ singing. (we)
3. They don’t understand _____ leaving home when he did. (John)
4. I’m worried about _____ taking so much money. (she)
5. I didn’t like _____ lending the car to him. (you)
6. What do you think about _____ resigning? (Tom)
7. I’m bored with _____ complaining. (they)
8. Do you know the reason for _____ stopping work. (they)
9. Who told you about _____ being sacked? (he)
10. What do you think of _____ leaving the country like that. (they)
11. I can think of no reason for _____ saying that. (she)
12. I don’t like _____ being out so late. (he)
13. She’ worried about _____ being arrested. (we)
14. The firm doesn’t mind _____ arriving at ten o’clock. (I)
Exercise 41
Match A and B. Translate the sentences.
| A | B |
| 1. We very much appreciate… | a) my leaving till next day. |
| 2. He strongly denied… | b) their meeting this afternoon. |
| 3. We enjoyed … | c) her taking more responsibility. |
| 4. The chairman suggested … | d) the band’s playing very much. |
| 5. I agreed to delay … | e) our postponing the question till later. |
| 6. He should consider … | f) your helping us. |
| 7. I can’t excuse … | g) your meeting Miss Brown! |
| 8. You must pardon … | h) our escaping. |
| 9. Would you mind … | i) Jim arriving so late. |
| 10. I can’t bear … | j) you / your bringing me breakfast in bed. |
| 11. They can’t prevent … | k) Jane practicing in the room next to yours? |
| 12. Please forgive … | l) him / his whistling when I’m trying to concentrate. |
| 13. I really miss … | m) her not answering our invitation. |
| 14. Fancy … | n) my not getting up. |
Exercise 42
Complete the sentences using the gerundial complexes from the following list:
Your thinking, her talking, my bringing, our waiting, his being taken, my not sitting, our keeping, your being left alone, your hearing
1. “You do not mind ____ Graham,” said Daniel. “I find it best to keep him under my eye.”
2. It is true she had prevented ____ to a mental home for treatment.
3. I like the idea ____ of other projects.
4. Some people it seems don’t like ____ to the rules.
5. But that doesn’t excuse ____ to Mrs. Smith as though Mrs. Smith were her great aunt.
6. I could see that Robinson was making an effort to form some communal for the period of ____on the island.
7. “You didn’t mind ____ at one of your tables this afternoon?” he asked once, when he was walking to the station with her.
8. There must be something wrong with ____ Peter.
9. I should have thought that ____ alone has given you a lot of opportunities.
Exercise 43
A friend has written to tell you he wants to give up his studies. You are writing a reply. Join pairs of sentences, beginning with the word in brackets.
1. Don’t ask your college friends what they think. That’s no good. (It …)
2. Don’t be hurt by other people’s comments about your studies. It’s no worth it. Try to work harder. (It …)
3. Discuss the problem with your parents. It would be worth it. (It …)
4. Why go out and earn money now. It’s no use. (It …)
5. Why worry about exams? It’s no use. (It …)
6. Think thoroughly about your future prospects before giving up studies. It is worth it. (It …)
7. Why not finish your education and then think of some new ideas. It’s worth it. (It …)
8. Don’t waste your education. There is nothing worse than that. (There …)
Now write part of your own letter. Include ideas and sentences given above.
Exercise 44
Translate into English.
1. Капітан часто мріє про повернення додому.
2. Хто у вашому клубі відповідальний за прийом нових членів?
3. Пропоную всім разом подивитися новий фільм, а потім піти на дискотеку.
4. Я винна в тому, що зрадила тебе.
5. Лід дуже слизький. Я боюся впасти.
6. Ви зацікавлені в тому, щоб працювати на нас?
7. У Петра не дуже добре виходить вивчати іноземні мови.
8. Ми з нетерпінням чекаємо від вас відповіді.
9. Моя сестра не може уявити, як вона буде танцювати на сцені.
10. Батьки не пам’ятають, щоб вони вас запрошували.
11. Ситуація в економіці залежить від збільшення інвестицій.
12. Третій кандидат найбільше підходить для виконання нашого завдання.
13. Не можна звинувачувати дітей в тому, що вони зробили так багато помилок.
14. У цьому році комісія буде перевіряти читання а додаток до усного мовлення.
15. Мері підозрювала чоловіка, що в нього був роман з її подругою.
16. Він припускає, що робив помилки в минулому.
17. Делегати відклали розгляд цього питання.
18. Мати Тереза відома своєю турботою про бідних та хворих.
19. Його головна проблема полягає в тому, що він забуває слова.
20. Вчора шеф заявив, що більше не терпітиме порушення правил.
Exercise 45
Translate into English.
1. Він пишається тим, що йому дали таке важливе завдання.
2. Пробачте, що ми не прийшли вчасно.
3. Він наполягає на тому, щоб усі прийшли завтра о сьомій годині.
4. Цей будинок потребує ремонту.
5. Робітники закінчили будівництво школи до першого липня.
6. Я втомився працювати у першу зміну.
7. Дякую вам за те, що вказали дорогу до автобусної станції.
8. Цього разу тобі вдалося встигнути на літак.
9. Яке ваше враження від виступу у нашому оперному театрі?
10. Генерала обвинувачують в організації перевороту.
11. Існують суворі вимоги для роботи на цьому обладнанні.
12. Ми зацікавлені в тому, щоб залучати до роботи молодих спеціалістів.
13. Вони не можуть зрозуміти, який мій інтерес у співпраці з ними.
14. Ми повинні вибачитися перед сусідами за те, що не запросили їх на вечірку.
15. Не можу пригадати, щоб бачив вас раніше.
16. С’ю не любить носити джинси.
17. На жаль, батько так і не пристосувався до нового керівництва.
18. Їй завжди було ліньки телефонувати нам першою.
19. Не може бути, щоб ваші сусіди були відповідальні за всі ці неподобства.
20. На мою думку, зараз нікого не турбує охорона довкілля.
21. Процес підрахування голосів ще не закінчено.
22. Уже півгодини члени комітету сперечаються про нагородження кандидатів.
23. Якісна упаковка необхідна для потужного продажу товарів.
24. Підсудний заперечував свою участь у злочині.
25. Більшість американців не сприймають куріння.
26. На жаль, наша родина не змогла зібрати достатньо грошей для придбання цієї чудової вілли.
27. Мені ще не вистачає досвіду перекладу на міжнародних конференціях.
28. Готування їжі завжди було моїм справжнім покликанням.
29. Редактор порадив журналістові подумати про написання нової статті.
30. Президент виступив на захист реформ і вільного ринку.
31. Батько завжди занадто хвилюється з приводу моїх пізніх приходів додому.
32. Нік пишається тим, що знає три мови.
33. Спробуйте зосередитися на тому, щоб думати позитивно.
34. Стрибки – ще один вид спорту, в якому, на додаток до бігу, досяг успіхів цей унікальний атлет.
35. Його підозрюють у крадіжці грошей з каси.
Exercise 46
Translate into English.
1. У момент вручення нагород ведучий раптово розсміявся.
2. Він ненавидів нагадувати людям про їхні обов’язки.
3. Я не пригадую, щоб мені ставили це питання.
4. Не міг не привернути увагу той факт, що її новий приятель – журналіст.
5. Я пам’ятаю, що вже бачив цю акторку в якомусь іншому спектаклі.
6. Дивно, чому вона уникає говорити на цю тему.
7. Ми боялися зіпсувати своє перше враження.
8. Сподіваюся, ви не заперечуєте, якщо їй розкажуть усе?
9. Усі пасажири подякували пілотові за успішну посадку.
10. Він жалкує про те, що відмовився від такої цікавої посади.
11. Він ніяк не міг звикнутися з тим, щоб провести відпустку дома.
12. Навіть не мрій, щоб дістати квитки заздалегідь.
13. Ми дякуємо вам за те, що позбавили нас стількох турбот.
14. Після такої неприємної сцени мені довелося уникати зустрічі з шефом.
15. Моя молодша сестра була здатна фантазувати день і ніч.
16. Партія звинуватила свого лідера у програші на виборах.
17. Довгий час члени братерства підозрювали Майкла в тому, що він шпигує за ними.
18. Я не переживаю, коли мене критикують.
19. Я спізнилася на прослуховування і втратила цю роль.
20. Збір доказів – важлива частина роботи слідчого.
21. Вона терпіти не може сидіти на дієті.
22. Багато артистів кіно та театру охоче діляться своїм досвідом про те, як стежити за вагою.
23. Не переживайте так сильно за своє запізнення.
24. Я розглядаю мандрівку як одну з найбільш корисних форм дозвілля.
25. Будівельники поставили опори і тим самим упередили падіння стародавнього будинку.
26. Міністр відкидав свою причетність до банківських махінацій.
27. Я – художник, але мої діти не мають інтересу до живопису.
28. Дирекція фестивалю заявила, що не потерпить порушення правил.
29. Якщо ви хочете працювати в нашому університеті, подумайте про написання дисертації.
30. У чому був зміст твоєї суперечки з батьками? Адже ти все одно нічого не довів.
THE PARTICIPLE
The Participle is a non-finite form which has certain verbal features and the syntactical functions of adjectival and adverbial character.
There are two participles in English – Participle I and Participle II. They are also called the present and the past participles though they differ in voice rather than in tense.
Objective verbs have four forms of Participle I:
| Indefinite active | Indefinite passive |
| writing | being written |
| Perfect active | Perfect passive |
| having written | having been written |
Subjective verbs have only two forms of Participle I:
| Indefinite active | Indefinite passive |
| standing | - |
| Perfect active | Perfect passive |
| having stood | - |
Participle II has only one form: written.
Most subjective verbs have no forms of Participle II outside the analytical forms of the verb. (Such participles as died, risen, walked can not be used predicatively or attributively, they only help to form the analytical forms of the verb – have walked, etc.)
The tenses of the participle are relative and show whether the action named by the participle took place at the same time with that of the finite verb or whether it preceded it.
Participle I Indefinite active (or passive) shows that the action named by the participle took place at the same time with that of the finite verb. These forms denote simultaneousness in the present, past or future.
E.g. That day we stayed at home watching TV.
Participle I Perfect active and passive shows that the action named by the participle preceded that of the finite verb. These forms denote priority to a present, past or future action.
E.g. Having said what I was obliged to say I want to tell you now how sorry I am.
Participle II in most cases denotes priority.
E.g. She pulled the long forgotten letter out of its hiding place.
Participle II may sometimes have a meaning of simultaneousness.
E.g. The dog carried by a child gave a sharp yelp of protest.
Participle I Indefinite and Perfect may take direct objects.
E.g. Holding the child close to her she seemed to be showing him something.
Having written the last word she looked up interrogatively.
Participles I and II may be modified by adverbs.
E.g. Deeply hurt, she cleared the table silently.
We saw him crossing the street very quickly.
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