Gerundartha

Gerundartha is a term used in some Indian grammatical traditions to denote the non-finite verb form that functions like a noun, i.e., the gerund or its equivalent in a given language. The word artha means meaning or function, so gerundartha can be understood as the “function of the gerund” within a sentence. The label is not universally standardized across all grammars, but it appears in descriptive treatments that explain how verbs can take noun-like roles.

Function and usage

A gerundartha form or phrase typically acts as a subject, an object, or a complement in a sentence. It may bear modifiers and participate in noun phrases, while preserving verbal origin. For example, in English, the gerund is formed with the -ing ending: Reading helps you learn. Here, Reading is a gerund functioning as the subject. Other examples include I enjoy swimming, where swimming functions as the object. In many languages, non-finite verb forms that serve these noun-like roles are described using analogous terminology or are analyzed as gerund phrases or non-finite clauses.

Relation to other non-finite forms

Gerundartha is contrasted with participles, which typically function as adjectives, and with infinitives, which often express purpose or form different syntactic relations. The gerund or gerund-like construction can be accompanied by determiners, adjectives, or possessives, reflecting its noun-like behavior in clauses. Some grammars also treat gerund phrases as larger non-finite clauses that carry a subject of their own or an understood subject from the main clause.

Cross-linguistic notes

Beyond English, languages have equivalent non-finite forms that convey the action-as-noun meaning, though the exact morphology and terminology vary. In academic discussions, gerund-related functions are often analyzed under non-finite verb forms, gerunds, or gerundive constructions, with terminology adapted to the specific language tradition.

See also: Gerund, Non-finite verb, Participle, Infinitive, Gerundive.