How many 'ing words do you know?

Sometimes words are changed by adding an 'ing ending. We use this form in English very often and knowing how and why we use it can really help you to improve your spoken and written English.

Here are some of the times that 'ing forms are used:

In continuous forms

• He's watching television.

• She has been reading her book all day.

After some verbs

• I enjoy skiing.

• Can you imagine living in a different country?

At the start of a sentence

• Skiing is fun.

• Describing herself as ....

As an adjective

• Football is boring.

• This is an interesting book.

After prepositions (occasionally the word 'to' functions as a preposition)

• She crossed the road without looking.

• He is very good at playing the piano.

• She is dedicated to helping others

Instead of relative clauses

• She is the person working in the accounts department

• The company implementing the plans has gone out of business

Task 1

I’d like you to read the following short paragraph and identify all the different ways the ‘ing form is being used.

“My name is Adi and I’m an English teacher. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy cycling, making music and reading. The most interesting country I’ve ever visited is Japan because it was so different to the countries I’d seen before.  Sometimes I even think about moving to Japan for a couple of years to teach English but I think that is unlikely to happen as I love living in Switzerland.  Work is going well and I’m currently setting up a new Friday evening book club starting in September. This could be a great opportunity for people who are committed to improving their English! If you’re thinking of joining, I suggest getting in touch with me very soon.”

Think first, then read the answers below:

1. In continuous forms - I'm (not) teaching, work is going well, I'm currently setting up

   
   

2. After some verbs - I enjoy cycling, making music and reading, love living, suggest getting

   
   

3. As an adjective (or comparative or superlative) - the most interesting

   
   

4. After prepositions - think about moving, thinking of joining, committed to improving

   
   

5. Instead of relative clauses - starting in September

   
   

6. Sometimes after the word to - committed to improving

   
   

Next time you read an article or listen to a podcast, try to pay attention to some of the different 'ing forms. This will help you to improve your #grammar so that you can use language more effectively. Alternatively, if you want some in-depth grammar coaching, sign up for lessons with Kreis 6 English.

PS coaching is a noun with an 'ing ending

Want to read more about this topic. Check out this post to remind yourself of a common mistake made by many English learners.