Predicative constructions (complexes) with the Gerund

In predicative constructions the Gerund is in predicate relation to а nounor а pronoun.

If the nominal element denotes а living being it can be expressed in the following ways:

а) а noun in the common or genitive case:

I’m grateful for my friend’s (my friend) helping me out.

b) а possessive pronoun:

I can’t remember his having even one close friend.

c) а personal pronoun in the objective case:

He liked me working late hours.

d) an indefinite, defining or negative pronoun:

I don’t remember anybody (anybody’s) saying it.

He boasted of everybody praising his report.

We were surprised at all coming to meet us.

We apologize for nobody meeting you at the airport.

e) а reflexive pronoun.

She couldn’t stop herself crying.

Note: In an informal style the common case of a noun instead of the genitive case and the objective case of the personal pronoun instead of the possessive pronoun are usually used after a verb or a preposition: I don’t mind him joining us. We objected to John leaving.

If the nominal element denotes а lifeless thing it can be expressed in the following ways:

a) а noun in the common case:

She was glad enough of the arm gliding along under her elbow.

He insisted on the essay being published in all the morning newspapers.

b) а possessive pronoun:

I really love spring and always look forward to its coming.

c) an indefinite, defining or negative pronoun:

He was aware of something being wrong.

He complains about everything being so different from what it used to be.

He insisted on nothing being done without consulting him.

d) demonstrative pronouns:

I object to this being published at all.

Predicative constructions are usually rendered in Russian by а subordinate clause.

She remembered her sister’s leaving the house that cold dark night. –

Она помнила, как ее сестра ушла из дома в ту холодную темную ночь.

In a sentence they can be used as subject, object, attribute, predicative and adverbial modifier in the same way as gerunds are used.

Subject – Her coming at any time she likes can drive me mad.

Object – I have never heard of Mrs. Grand being here.

Attribute – I didn’t like the idea of her meeting the train alone.

Predicative – The only problem is the police getting involved in the matter.

Adverbial Modifier – After these facts becoming open to the public we’ll discuss our next step.

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