Which of the following describes a gerund and how it functions in a sentence?

1. A gerund is a noun that functions as the subject of a sentence.
2. A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.
3. A gerund is it now in the functions as a direct object, receiving the action in a sentence.
4. A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a verb in a sentence.

The correct answer is:

2. A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.

The correct answer is:

2. A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.

A gerund is formed by adding -ing to a verb, and it functions as a noun in a sentence. It can be used as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb or preposition, or as a predicate nominative. Gerunds act as nouns and can take on the roles that nouns typically perform in a sentence.

The correct answer is option 2. A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.

To understand a gerund and how it functions in a sentence, you need to know the following:

1. A gerund is derived from a verb but acts as a noun.
2. It is formed by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb (e.g., "running," "swimming").
3. Gerunds can function as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence, just like regular nouns.

Now let's break down the options to see why option 2 is the correct answer:

1. Option 1 states that a gerund is a noun that functions as the subject of a sentence. This is incorrect because a gerund can function as a subject, but it can also function as an object or complement.
2. Option 2 correctly states that a gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence. This is the most accurate description of a gerund.
3. Option 3 states that a gerund is "it now in the functions as a direct object, receiving the action in a sentence." This statement is not grammatically correct and does not accurately describe a gerund.
4. Option 4 states that a gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a verb in a sentence. This is incorrect because, by definition, a gerund functions as a noun, not a verb.

So, the correct answer is option 2: A gerund is a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.