Grammar: Word classes: Nouns: Noun formation

Forming nouns from other word classes

What are the rules for forming -ing forms from verbs?

when the verb ends in a single consonant, double the consonant and add '-ing':

clap - clapping
grin - grinning

when the verb ends in '-ie', replace '-ie' with '-ying':

die - dying
tie - tying

when the verb ends in '-e', replace '-e' with '-ing' (although there are exceptions: canoeing):

dance - dancing
joke - joking

Most verbs have the possibility for two noun forms (eg, to prepare: preparation, and preparing), but there are many verbs for which the -ing noun is the only one available (eating and drinking, coming and going).

Playing sports and doing activities

In English, it is very common to talk about playing sports, eg playing basketball, playing tennis. However, the verb play is almost never followed by an -ing noun. 

For information about some of the problems that students have with this, click here:

The -ing nouns which refer to sports and hobbies are almost invariably used with a form of the verb to go. Here is a list of verbs which students are likely to encounter:

She went bowling in Kowloon City Plaza.
I want to go canoeing this summer.
We went riding during our holiday to Canada.
You can go sightseeing.
My brother goes skateboarding every day.
Let's go shopping.
My dad goes swimming every morning.
I'm going window shopping.

Are -ing forms countable or uncountable?

Because most -ing forms are used to refer to activities in a general way, they tend to be mainly uncountable. This means that they do not take a plural 's', they always take a singular verb, and they cannot be used with numbers. However, there are still quite a few which are countable:

...  a new beginning.
... so many new buildings.
I've done three drawings.
You've hurt my feelings.
The meaning is not clear.
My Dad is always going to meetings.
Some paintings are very expensive.
Do you know any famous sayings?
Miss Lee said she would only give one warning.

For more information, see Grammar: Word classes: Nouns: Countable and uncountable nouns