Verbals

Verbals are verb forms that function as other parts of speech in a sentence. There are three types of verbals:

• Gerunds
• Participles
• Infinitives

Gerunds#

Gerunds are verb forms that end in “-ing” and function as nouns. They can act as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence.

• Subject: Swimming is fun.
• Direct Object: She loves baking.
• Indirect Object: They gave singing a try.
• Complement: His favorite activity is hiking.

Participles#

Participles are verb forms that function as adjectives. They can be present participles (ending in “-ing”) or past participles (usually ending in “-ed,” “-d,” “-t,” “-en,” or “-n”).

• Present Participle: The crying baby needs attention.
• Past Participle: The broken vase was on the floor.

Infinitives#

Infinitives are the base form of a verb, usually preceded by “to.” They can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.

• Noun: To run is my goal.
• Adjective: She has a book to read.
• Adverb: He came to help.