Gerund vs.past participle

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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Rustamsher
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Gerund vs.past participle

Post by Rustamsher »

Hi Mr Bunyan,


Is swimming in 'swimming pool' gerund or present participle?

As is known, the distinction between 'participles' and 'gerunds' is not always clear-cut, but I would like to know your personal opinion


Thanks a lot..
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Alan
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Re: Gerund vs.past participle

Post by Alan »

In this case, the distinction is very clear!
'Swimming' here is an attributive gerund, since it denotes the purpose of the pool (not what the pool itself is doing).
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