This tutorial focuses on the definition of verbal nouns and examples. Additionally, we will explore the difference between verbal nouns and gerunds, and discuss the types of verbal nouns. I will also provide a verbal nouns list, sentence examples, and tips on how to identify a verbal noun in a sentence.
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In English grammar, verbal nouns are essential in constructing meaningful sentences. Many learners confuse verbal nouns with gerunds, but they serve different purposes. Do you want to clear this confusion in your mind once and for all? Then continue reading.
What is a Verbal Noun?
A verbal noun is a word derived from a verb but functions purely as a regular noun in a sentence.
Unlike verbs, verbal nouns do not indicate an action being performed. Instead, they represent the action as a thing or concept.
Again, unlike gerunds, verbal nouns do not retain the characteristics of a verb, such as taking direct objects or expressing tense.
Put differently, a verbal noun is any word formed from a verb that names an action, process, or result but does not function as a verb in any way.
Key Features of a Verbal Noun
Derived from a verb
Functions as a noun
Can take articles (the, a, an)
It can have adjectives before it
Can be pluralized in some cases
Examples of Verbal Nouns in Sentences
That building belongs to Alhaji Tanko. (“Building” is a verbal noun coming from “build”.)
Arrival of the guests was delayed. (“Arrival” is a verbal noun derived from “arrive.”)
Decision on the matter has been made. (“Decision” is a verbal noun from “decide.”)
Kwame’s acceptance of the award was emotional. (Acceptance comes from the verb accept but functions as a noun.)
The construction of the new road took a year. (Construction comes from construct and acts as a noun.)
Sarah’s decision shocked her friends. (Decision is derived from decide but acts as a noun.)
The reading of the will took place at noon. (Reading is a verbal noun here, not a gerund.)
His arrival was unexpected. (Arrival comes from arrive and is a noun.)
Kwame’s arrival was unexpected.
Her acceptance of the job offer made everyone happy.
The destruction caused by the storm was severe.
His refusal to apologize worsened the situation.
The movement for human rights gained more support.
Types of Sentences in English with Examples
90 Likely Grammatical Name Questions and Answers
Difference Between Verbal Nouns and Gerunds
Many learners confuse verbal nouns with gerunds because both come from verbs. However, there are clear differences between the two.
Although verbal nouns and gerunds originate from verbs, they function differently in sentences.
Gerunds
End in -ing
Function as nouns, but still retain some verb-like qualities (they can take objects and modifiers).
Example: Kojo enjoys reading novels. (“Reading” is a gerund that takes the object “novels.”)
Always end in -ing
Function as verbs in noun form
Do not take articles or adjectives like normal nouns
Cannot be pluralized
Verbal Nouns
Can end in -ing, -ment, -tion, -sion, -ance, -ence, -al
Function purely as nouns
Do not take direct objects
May have different endings (-al, -ance, -ment, -ion, -ure, etc.)
Function completely as nouns
Can take articles and adjectives
Can sometimes be pluralized
Example: The construction of the road will take months. (“Construction” is a verbal noun and cannot take a direct object.)
Key Differences
While both verbal nouns and gerunds come from verbs, they have notable differences. Use the tables below to increase your understanding of the difference between verbal nouns and gerunds.
They will clarify further the definition of verbal nouns and the examples you’ve seen so far.
Table 1
| Feature | Verbal Noun | Gerund |
| Retains verb qualities | No | Yes |
| Can take direct objects | No | Yes |
| Functions purely as a noun | Yes | Partially |
| Common endings | -ing, -ment, -tion, -sion, -ance, -ence, -al | -ing only |
Table 2
| Feature | Verbal Noun | Gerund |
| Functions as | A pure noun | A noun but retains verb-like properties |
| Can take an object? | No (uses “of” + noun) | Yes (takes a direct object) |
| Modified by | Adjectives | Adverbs |
| Common suffixes | -ing, -tion, -ment, -ance, -al | -ing |
| Example | The painting of the portrait took hours. | Painting portraits is fun. |
Example Sentences Comparing Gerunds and Verbal Nouns
| Sentence with a Gerund | Sentence with a Verbal Noun |
| Swimming is fun. | The swimming competition was exciting. |
| Running every morning keeps me fit. | His run was exhausting. |
| Writing novels requires creativity. | The writing of novels takes time. |
| Dancing is her passion. | The dance was well-organized. |
| Reading improves knowledge. | The reading of books is beneficial. |
Example Sentences:
Verbal Noun: The building of the bridge took five years. (Uses of the bridge instead of a direct object.)
Gerund: Building a bridge takes time. (Bridge is a direct object of building.)
Types of Verbal Nouns
Among the most common types of verbal nouns are the following.
-ing nouns: Reading, Painting, Writing
-tion nouns: Construction, Decision, Creation
-ment nouns: Development, Enjoyment, Achievement
-ance nouns: Acceptance, Performance, Assistance
-al nouns: Refusal, Arrival, Approval
Example Sentences
Their enjoyment of the festival was obvious. (Enjoyment from enjoy)
The performance of the choir was excellent. (Performance from perform)
Classification of Verbal Nouns
Thus, verbal nouns can be classified based on their formation. They can take different suffixes depending on how they are derived from verbs.
1. Verbal Nouns Ending in -ing
Some verbal nouns look like gerunds because they end in -ing but they function as true nouns.
The painting was expensive.
His writing is difficult to read.
The building was completed last year.
The meeting starts at 9 AM.
The beginning of the year is always busy.
2. Verbal Nouns Ending in -ment
These nouns show the result of an action.
The development of the project took years.
The movement for justice grew stronger.
The enjoyment of the music was clear on her face.
The agreement was signed yesterday.
His achievement in school made his parents proud.
3. Verbal Nouns Ending in -ion or -ation
Many verbs form verbal nouns by adding -ion or -ation.
The discussion lasted for hours.
The creation of the new product was successful.
His decision shocked everyone.
The completion of the bridge was delayed.
The invitation to the party was unexpected.
4. Verbal Nouns Ending in -ance or -ence
These nouns often refer to states or processes.
The performance of the actors was impressive.
The existence of life beyond Earth is debated.
Her appearance surprised us.
The difference between the two ideas is clear.
The acceptance of his proposal made him happy.
5. Verbal Nouns Ending in -al
Some verbs form nouns by adding -al.
The arrival of Kofi was delayed.
The refusal to cooperate caused problems.
The denial of the accusations was firm.
The approval of the request was quick.
The recital was well-performed.
Verbal Noun Sentence Examples
Verbal Nouns Ending in -ing:
Example: The painting was magnificent.
Verbal Nouns Ending in -ment:
Example: The development of the town is rapid.
Verbal Nouns Ending in -tion or -sion:
Example: Her decision surprised everyone.
Verbal Nouns Ending in -ance or -ence:
Example: The performance was breathtaking.
Verbal Nouns Ending in -al:
Example: The arrival of the team was delayed.
Here are additional sentences using verbal nouns.
Yaw’s singing impressed the audience.
The punishment for lateness was severe.
Adwoa’s acceptance into the university was joyful news.
Their discussion about politics lasted hours.
Mariam’s refusal to apologize shocked her parents.
The construction of Kwame’s new house is nearly complete.
Daniel’s performance in the debate was excellent.
The arrival of guests from Nigeria caused excitement.
Amina’s explanation helped the students understand the topic.
They announced the appointment of a new principal.
Adiza’s singing was beautiful. (Singing is a verbal noun, not a gerund.)
The destruction of the ancient building was unfortunate.
His refusal to answer the question created tension.
Esi’s writing has improved significantly.
The development of new technology is rapid.
Verbal Nouns List
Here is a list of common verbal nouns under different suffixes.
-ing Verbal Nouns
- Painting
- Singing
- Writing
- Reading
- Building
-tion Verbal Nouns
- Construction
- Decision
- Creation
- Destruction
- Celebration
-ment Verbal Nouns
- Enjoyment
- Development
- Agreement
- Achievement
- Disappointment
-ance Verbal Nouns
- Acceptance
- Performance
- Assistance
- Importance
- Disturbance
-al Verbal Nouns
- Arrival
- Refusal
- Proposal
- Approval
- Denial
How to Identify a Verbal Noun in a Sentence
While the definition and examples of verbal nouns above can be useful in identifying verbal nouns, the process becomes easier if you follow certain guidelines.
To identify a verbal noun in a sentence, use these tips.
1. Check if the word is derived from a verb.
Example: The development of the city was rapid. (“Development” comes from “develop.”)
2. See if it functions purely as a noun.
Example: Yaw’s teaching is excellent. (“Teaching” functions as a noun, not a verb.)
3. Ensure it does not take a direct object.
Example: Her decision was final. (“Decision” is a noun and does not take an object.)
Contrast: She decided the issue. (Here, “decided” is a verb and takes the object “the issue.”)
4. Look for other noun characteristics.
A verbal noun behaves like a noun. This means that it can:
Have an article (the, a, an) before it.
Have adjectives describing it.
Appear as the subject or object of a sentence.
Example:
❌ She is building a house. (building = verb, not a verbal noun)
✔ The building was constructed last year. (building = verbal noun, acts as a noun)
5. Check if it can be pluralized.
Some verbal nouns can be pluralized, while gerunds cannot.
✔ His achievement was impressive. (Singular verbal noun)
✔ His achievements were impressive. (Plural verbal noun)
❌ His achievings were impressive. (Incorrect—gerunds cannot be pluralized)
6. Determine whether it represents something.
A verbal noun refers to the action as a thing rather than an action.
✔ The destruction of the old house was inevitable. (destruction = thing, verbal noun)
❌ The workers are destroying the old house. (destroying = action, not a verbal noun)
Summary of How to Identify a Verbal Noun in a Sentence
To spot a verbal noun in a sentence, check the following.
✔ It functions fully as a noun.
✔ Does not take a direct object.
✔ Can be modified by an adjective instead of an adverb.
✔ Often appears with “the” or “of”.
The Relationship Between Verbal Nouns and Gerunds
Despite knowing the definition of verbal nouns and some examples do you still get confused about the difference between verbal nouns and gerunds? Well, you’re not alone. Many students of English grammar find it hard to determine when an ing-word is a verbal noun and when it is a gerund.
Indeed, the relationship between gerunds and verbal nouns is a bit more nuanced. What you must always bear in mind is this:
While some words in their -ing form can function as both gerunds and verbal nouns depending on the context, a verbal noun is never a gerund because it does not retain verb-like properties. However, all gerunds are technically verbal nouns because they originate from verbs and function as nouns.
Let’s break it down clearly.
Why Can Some Gerunds Also Be Verbal Nouns?
A gerund is a noun derived from a verb that still retains some verb-like characteristics (e.g., it can take an object or be modified by an adverb).
Meanwhile, a verbal noun is also a noun coming from a verb but has completely lost its verb-like qualities.
For example:
1. Reading is enjoyable. → Reading is a gerund because it functions as a noun but can still take an object (Reading books is enjoyable).
2. The reading of the book took two hours. → Reading here is a verbal noun because it acts fully as a noun and is modified by “the” and “of the book” instead of taking a direct object. Moreover, it functions as the subject of the verb, ‘took’ in the sentence.
Why Can’t a Verbal Noun Be a Gerund?
A verbal noun does not retain any verb-like properties. In fact, it behaves completely as a noun, meaning:
It cannot take a direct object (instead, it uses “of” + noun).
Also, it can be modified by adjectives instead of adverbs.
It often has other suffixes apart from -ing (-ing, -tion, -ment, -ance, etc.).
Look at these two examples.
1. His acceptance of the award was emotional. (Acceptance is a verbal noun, not a gerund, because it has lost all verb-like properties.)
2. Dancing with vigour is her passion. (Dancing is not only a verbal noun but also a gerund because it retains a verb-like function.)
Note that ‘dancing’ here functions as the subject in the sentence and that makes it a verbal noun.
Secondly, ‘dancing’ is modified by the adverbial phrase ‘with vigour’ and that makes it a gerund.
Key Takeaways
Remember these two points whenever you want to clarify the relationship between gerunds and verbal nouns. Together with the definition and examples of verbal nouns we’ve been discussing, you stand a better chance of grasping this concepts once and for all.
1. All gerunds are verbal nouns, but not all verbal nouns are gerunds.
2. Gerunds function as verbs and retain verb-like properties, whereas verbal nouns function purely as nouns.
Practice: Identify the Verbal Nouns in These Sentences
1. The celebration of Kofi’s birthday was fun.
2. Writing is her passion.
3. Kadidja’s refusal surprised everyone.
4. The destruction of the statue was tragic.
5. Their performance was outstanding.
(Answers: celebration, writing, refusal, destruction, and performance are verbal nouns.)
Try forming your own sentences using verbal nouns and compare them with gerunds. This will help you master their differences and improve your writing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Verbal Nouns
Take note of the following FAQs as you try to fully understand the definition, examples and characteristics of verbal nouns and how they differ from gerunds.
Q1: Can all verbal nouns be gerunds?
No. While all gerunds are technically verbal nouns (since they are noun forms of verbs), not all verbal nouns are gerunds because some have different suffixes (-tion, -ment, -ance, etc.).
Q2: Can verbal nouns take direct objects?
No. Unlike gerunds, verbal nouns cannot take direct objects. Instead, they use “of + noun” to indicate what they relate to.
Example:
Gerund: Building houses takes time. (Houses is the direct object.)
Verbal noun: The building of houses takes time. (Uses “of houses” instead.)
Q3: How do I know if an -ing word is a gerund or a verbal noun?
Check its behaviour:
✔ If it takes a direct object → Gerund
✔ If it is modified by an adjective and uses “the” or “of” → Verbal Noun
Example:
Gerund: Teaching students is rewarding. (Students is a direct object.)
Verbal Noun: The teaching of students requires patience. (“of students” replaces the direct object.)
Q4: Can verbal nouns be plural?
Yes! Some verbal nouns can take plural forms, e.g., decisions, approvals, refusals.
Q5: Are there any exceptions?
Some words can function as both gerunds and verbal nouns depending on context.
Example:
Verbal noun: The painting of the wall was done well.
Gerund: Painting walls is my hobby.
Final Thoughts
We have come to the end of this English Grammar tutorial on the definition, examples and usage of verbal nouns. You’ve learnt a lot about identifying verbal nouns in a sentence and how they differ from gerunds. Remember that verbal nouns are essential in English grammar. They allow us to describe actions and processes while maintaining proper sentence structure. Do not forget that, unlike gerunds, verbal nouns function solely as nouns and do not take direct objects.
Take full advantage of the definition, types, and sentence examples of verbal nouns, verbal noun sentence examples in this tutorial to improve your writing and comprehension skills. Remember to practice identifying verbal nouns in sentences to master their usage effectively!
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