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gerundial

gerundial

1 9.9
Relating to a verb form that acts like a noun, for example swimming
  • adjective
  • /ˌdʒɛrʌnˈdaɪəl/
  • Specialized
: gerundial
  • Her dissertation focused on gerundial forms in different languages.

Examples

  • The gerundial form of the verb is essential in English grammar.

  • The phrase 'swimming is fun' contains a gerundial construction.

  • In English, '-ing' is a common gerundial suffix.

  • Understanding gerundial constructions can improve your writing skills.

  • The author's latest novel features a gerundial approach that emphasizes self-discovery and personal growth.

  • Her speech was filled with gerundial phrases that added depth and clarity to her arguments.

  • The course on creative writing teaches students how to use gerundial forms effectively in their poetry.

Surface Forms

gerundial positive

Morphology

gerundial = gerund (transparent) = gerund + ial

The adjective is a regular formation from 'gerund' + '-ial' meaning 'relating to a gerund', which a learner who knows 'gerund' and basic suffix '-ial' can infer.

Etymology

Gerundial comes from the Latin root gerund, from gerere meaning 'to do', and it means 'relating to a gerund'. A helpful way to remember it is that the same root appears in gesture, a movement you 'do', so gerundial is about verb forms that name actions, like the English '-ing' form.