The category of correlation.

The category of correlation in P1 finds it expression in the contrast of the non-perfect & perfect forms.

The indefinite G denotes an action simultaneous with that expressed by the finite verb. Ex.: I improve/ I improved/ I will improve my pronunciation… by listening to tape recordings.

The perfect G denotes an action prior to the action denoted by thr finite verb. Ex.: I regret/ I regretted/ I will always regret… having uttered these words.

The non-perfect G is more flexible in meaning and may easily be modified by the context.

The common G is generally used after verbs of recollection, gratitude, blame, reproach, punishment & reward. Ex.: I will never forget taking this exam. Thank u for helping me.

The non-perfect G is to be found in gerundial phrases introduced by the prepositions on and after. Ex.: On reaching the end of the street we turned towards the river.

The non-perfect G expresses a succeeding action after verbs, adjectives & prepositions implying reference to a future event (intend, insist, object, suggest) & after the preposition before: Ex.: I insist on your staying with us. Ann suggested going to the cinema.

The category of voice.

The active G points out that the action is directed from the subject, the passive G indicates that the action is directed towards the subject:

Ex.: I hate interrupting people. - I hate being interrupted.

The perfect passive G is very rarely used.

There are some verbs (need, want, require, deserve) & the adjective worth which are followed by an active G with passive meaning. (Your hair needs cutting. This house wants painting.)

Syntactical functions of the Gerund.

The G can perform any syntactical function performed by a noun. It may function (a) alone, without modifiers, or (b) as the headword of a gerundial phrase, or (c) as part of a gerundial predicative construction. Ex.: a) I like driving. b) I like playing the piano. c) I like Ann’s playing the piano.

Verbals as a Subject and Part of a Compound Nominal Predicate.

G as a Subject.

As a rule the G as subject stands in front position.

Ex.: Ann’s coming tomorrow will make all the difference.

The subject stands in postposition in sentences opening with an introductory it, which happens when the meaning of the subject is accentuated & the predicate is a phrase such as to be (of) no use, to make all the (no) difference.

Ex.: U’ll make no difference your being quite.

In sentences with the introductory there the G is preceded by the negative pronoun no. such sentences are usually emphatic.

Ex.: Well, there is no avoiding him now.

G as a Part of a Compound Nominal Predicate.

As predicative the G may express either (a) a state or (b) identity. In the second case the predicative of identity reveals the meaning of the subject.

Ex.: a) Peter was against your joining us. b) Ann’s hobby is collecting all sorts of bugs & butterflies.

Note: Also – Do u feel like going for a walk?

Inf. as a Subject.

The Inf. functioning as an subj. may either precede the predicate or follow it. In the later case it is introduced by the introductory it: It’s so silly to be fussy& jealous.

The function of the can be performed by the Inf. of any voice, aspect and correlation form.

Date: 2015-12-11; view: 1240