How to Use Gerund With Prepositions

We wrote earlier about the definition of the verb form, and here the verb form (gerund) can be the target of a preposition after a verb, adjective or noun.

How to use gerund with prepositions

 

In general, gerund is a bit tricky, but how do we know if we need to use it after prepositions or if we need an infinitive instead?

1. As a general rule, the verb form "gerund" is always after the prepositions.

• After having a shower, I waited for Steven.
• The tablet must not be taken before getting up in the morning.
• I manage it by working much longer than 40-hour weeks.
• In spite of studying a lot he didn't pass the exams.
• What was her reaction on hearing the news?
• He told the joke without laughing.

 

See: The Difference Between Gerund and Continuous Tenses

 

2- The form of the verb "gerund" after the "adjectives" + prepositions.

• They are afraid of losing the match.
• Pat is angry about walking in the rain.
• John is good at working in the garden.
• He is clever at skateboarding.
• The girl is crazy about playing tennis.
• He is disappointed about seeing such a bad report.
• We are excited about making our own film.
• Sandy is famous for singing songs.
• I'm fed up with being treated as a child.
• Hannah is fond of going to parties.
• She is glad about getting married again.
• The children are not happy about seeing a doctor.
• Are you interested in writing poems?
• Joe is keen on drawing.
• She is proud of riding a snowboard.
• We're sick of sitting around like this.
• He's sorry for eating in the lesson.
• I'm tired of waiting for you.
• She is used to smoking.
• I'm worried about making mistakes.

3- Noun + Preposition + Gerund.

• What is the advantage of exercising?
• There’s a chance of raining today.
• There’s a choice between traveling to Brazil or Mexico.
• Donald is in danger of committing a serious felony.
• He has difficulty in remembering names and faces.

4- Verbs + Preposition + Gerund.

• He was accused of embezzling the organization’s funds.
• I would like to apologize for treating you this way.
• They complained about overpricing.
• You need to concentrate on studying.
• Luis and his family are not sure how to cope with having to downsize.

See: Gerund and Infinitive With Verbs