Understanding the intricacies of the English language can be a daunting task, especially for non-native speakers. One such complexity arises with the use of prepositions followed by the ing-form, also known as the gerund. This article aims to elucidate this grammatical structure, providing a clear and comprehensive guide for learners.
What is a Gerund?
Before delving into the specifics of prepositions followed by the ing-form, it is crucial to understand what a gerund is. A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun in a sentence. For instance, in the sentence “Swimming is fun,” the word “swimming” is a gerund acting as the subject of the sentence. Gerunds can be used in various grammatical contexts, including as the object of prepositions.
Prepositions and Gerunds
In English, prepositions are often followed by gerunds rather than infinitives. This can be a challenging concept for learners, especially those whose native languages follow different grammatical rules. Here are some common prepositions that are typically followed by gerunds:
1. About
The preposition “about” is frequently followed by a gerund. This construction is often used to express topics or subjects of discussion or thoughts.
Example:
– “We talked about going to the beach this weekend.”
– “She is excited about starting her new job.”
2. After
“After” is another preposition that is usually followed by a gerund. This usage often indicates that one action follows another.
Example:
– “He went to bed after finishing his homework.”
– “They had a meeting after signing the contract.”
3. Before
Similar to “after,” the preposition “before” is also followed by a gerund, indicating that one action precedes another.
Example:
– “She always stretches before exercising.”
– “You should wash your hands before eating.”
4. By
“By” followed by a gerund often indicates the means or method by which something is done.
Example:
– “You can improve your English by reading more books.”
– “They saved a lot of money by carpooling.”
5. For
The preposition “for” is used with gerunds to express purpose or reason.
Example:
– “Thank you for helping me with my project.”
– “They were fined for parking in a no-parking zone.”
6. In
“In” followed by a gerund often indicates a state or condition.
Example:
– “She is interested in learning new languages.”
– “He succeeded in solving the problem.”
7. Of
“Of” is another common preposition that is followed by a gerund, often indicating a cause or reason.
Example:
– “She is tired of working long hours.”
– “He is proud of being the team captain.”
8. On
“On” followed by a gerund is used to indicate the basis or foundation of something.
Example:
– “He insisted on coming with us.”
– “She kept on talking despite the interruptions.”
9. With
The preposition “with” followed by a gerund is used to indicate accompaniment or association.
Example:
– “She left the party with leaving a message for her friends.”
– “He succeeded with practicing every day.”
Special Cases
While the above prepositions are commonly followed by gerunds, there are special cases and exceptions worth noting.
1. Prepositions in Fixed Phrases
Certain fixed phrases in English involve prepositions followed by gerunds. These phrases are idiomatic and may not follow standard grammatical rules.
Example:
– “She is looking forward to meeting you.”
– “He confessed to breaking the vase.”
In the above examples, the phrases “looking forward to” and “confessed to” are fixed expressions where the preposition “to” is followed by a gerund.
2. Prepositions in Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs, which are verbs combined with prepositions or adverbs, can also be followed by gerunds.
Example:
– “He ended up finding a new job.”
– “She gave up smoking last year.”
In these examples, “ended up” and “gave up” are phrasal verbs where the prepositions “up” are followed by gerunds.
3. Prepositions in Adjective + Preposition Combinations
Some adjective and preposition combinations are followed by gerunds.
Example:
– “She is good at painting.”
– “He is afraid of flying.”
In these sentences, the combinations “good at” and “afraid of” are followed by gerunds.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Using prepositions followed by gerunds can be tricky, and learners often make mistakes. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Using the Infinitive Instead of the Gerund
One of the most common mistakes is using the infinitive form of the verb instead of the gerund after a preposition.
Incorrect: “She is interested in to learn new languages.”
Correct: “She is interested in learning new languages.”
To avoid this mistake, remember that prepositions are always followed by the gerund form of the verb.
2. Misplacing the Preposition
Another common error is misplacing the preposition in the sentence.
Incorrect: “He succeeded solving in the problem.”
Correct: “He succeeded in solving the problem.”
Ensure that the preposition directly precedes the gerund to avoid this mistake.
3. Using the Wrong Preposition
Sometimes, learners use the wrong preposition before the gerund.
Incorrect: “She is good in painting.”
Correct: “She is good at painting.”
To avoid this, familiarize yourself with common preposition and gerund combinations.
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of prepositions followed by gerunds, here are some practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct preposition and gerund form of the verb in parentheses.
1. She is interested ___ (learn) new languages.
2. He succeeded ___ (solve) the problem.
3. They talked ___ (go) on a trip.
4. She is tired ___ (work) long hours.
5. He insisted ___ (come) with us.
Exercise 2: Correct the Sentences
Correct the following sentences by using the appropriate preposition and gerund.
1. He is good in play the guitar.
2. She is looking forward meeting you.
3. They are afraid in flying.
4. He gave up to smoke last year.
5. She is excited about to start her new job.
Conclusion
Understanding the use of prepositions followed by gerunds is essential for mastering English grammar. By familiarizing yourself with common prepositions and their gerund forms, you can improve your language skills and avoid common mistakes. Practice regularly and pay attention to fixed phrases, phrasal verbs, and adjective-preposition combinations to become more proficient in using this grammatical structure. Happy learning!
