B2 — Upper Intermediate+50 XP available

Interactive Grammar: Passive Gerunds

Understand passive gerund forms — being done, having been done — and their uses.

Grammar Explanation · Authentic Examples · Practice Exercises

Lesson progressNot started

Duration

~36 min

Exercises

Level

Upper Intermediate

Overview

Understand passive gerund forms — being done, having been done — and their uses.

Forms

Simplebeing + past participle: being asked, being seen
Perfecthaving been + past participle: having been approved
ExampleShe hated being interrupted during presentations.
ExampleHaving been rejected twice, he tried a different approach.

When They Occur

After prepositions: Despite being warned, he continued.
After verbs requiring gerund: She resented being treated unfairly.
As subjects: Being asked to leave was humiliating.
Perfect passive gerund marks earlier action: after having been selected

Common Mistakes

❌ being ask → ✅ being asked (past participle required)
❌ having been asking → ✅ having been asked (passive = past participle)
❌ After being interviewed him → ✅ After being interviewed, he was offered the role.

When to use

Workplace

She was used to being consulted on strategic decisions.

Legal

Having been acquitted, he could not be tried again.

Academic

The sample risks being contaminated if not properly stored.

Journalism

Despite being questioned, the official refused to comment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this lesson on active and passive voice cover?

Understand passive gerund forms — being done, having been done — and their uses.

Which CEFR level is this lesson designed for?

This lesson is designed for Upper Intermediate (B2) learners and forms part of the Active and Passive Voice section on Grammartier.

What is the best approach for studying this grammar topic?

Start with the definition, then study the examples carefully to understand how the pattern works in context. Practise identifying the structure in authentic sentences before producing your own — this recognition-first approach builds a strong foundation for accurate, confident use.