Identify the verbal in this sentence as infinitive, gerund or participle.

Question

The old woman slept, not realizing she was no longer poor.

I'm not sure if this is a gerund or a participle. "Not realizing" seems to be describing the old woman. I can't see how it could be a gerund since "realizing," in this case, isn't being used as a noun (that's what I think, at least).

Thank you.

Answer 1

You're right that "realizing" (with the adverb "not") is the verbal in the sentence. Since it's describing someone, which is it? Gerund or participle?

Answer 2

If it's describing someone then it's a participle. Your explanations always make sense. Thank you so much!

Answer 3

You're welcome!

Here's a super website for explanations, examples, and maybe just clarifications!
http://www.chompchomp.com/terms.htm

Answer 4

That's exactly what I've been looking for! Thank you!!

Answer 5

YW!!