Verbals are words that are derived from verbs but function as different parts of speech. There are three types of verbals: gerunds, participles, and infinitives.

1. Gerunds: Gerunds are verb forms that function as nouns. They end in -ing and can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence. For example, in the sentence “Swimming is my favorite hobby,” “swimming” is a gerund functioning as the subject.

2. Participles: Participles are verb forms that function as adjectives. There are two types of participles: present participles and past participles. Present participles end in -ing, while past participles usually end in -ed, -en, or -t. For example, in the sentence “The broken vase needs to be replaced,” “broken” is a past participle modifying the noun “vase.”

3. Infinitives: Infinitives are verb forms that function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. They are formed by adding “to” before the base form of a verb. Infinitives can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence. For example, in the sentence “To travel is my dream,” “to travel” is an infinitive functioning as the subject.

Verbals can add variety and depth to sentences by allowing verbs to be used in different ways. They can also help convey different meanings and nuances in writing.