word choice - Gerund Phrase as Subject


Is it acceptable to use a gerund phrase as the subject of a sentence? More generally, can a gerund phrase be used interchangeably with other nouns? For example:



Understanding history enhances one's judgment.



I feel it makes more sense to write:



An understanding of history enhances one's judgment.




Answer



It seems that virtually all nouns that are based on verbs and end in -ing are simply gerunds that have broken free. However, there can subtle differences.


When used as a straight noun, especially with an article, the gerunds-now-nouns tend to refer to the specific:



The acting was incredible. [This particular acting event was praiseworthy.]



When used in a classical gerund form, the phrase is more universal:



Acting is incredible. [The act of acting, in general, is transformative.]



While both forms are grammatically correct, and both sound fine, there may be subtle differences depending on the context. Or there may not. The offered examples appear equivalent.


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