Ing: meaning, definitions and examples
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ing
[ ɪŋ ]
grammar, suffix
'Ing' is a suffix in English that is commonly used to form the present participle of verbs. It can also indicate ongoing action or a continuous state. For example, 'running' and 'swimming' are derived from the verbs 'run' and 'swim' respectively. In addition, it can be used as a gerund, a verb form that functions as a noun. This makes it versatile in both verbal and nominal contexts.
Synonyms
gerund, present participle.
Examples of usage
- I enjoy reading.
- She is singing beautifully.
- They are playing football.
- He likes running in the park.
Etymology
The suffix 'ing' originates from Old English, specifically from the word 'ing,' which was used to denote actions and states. Over time, it evolved through Middle English before settling into its modern form. In its grammatical usage, it serves to create various verb forms that not only indicate actions but also help in conveying the progressive aspect of verbs. The use of 'ing' is predominant in English literature and speech, reflecting ongoing actions in daily conversations. Its flexibility allows it to serve critical roles in sentence structure, affirming its importance in the evolution of the English language.