Gerunds and Infinitives
(verb-ing and to + verb)
Gerunds
A gerund is an -ing verb used as a noun. We often use gerunds after other verbs (verb + gerund). For example:
My sister likes swimming.
Simon went shopping on Friday.
I might start learning French.
Be careful - gerunds are not the same as the present continuous. You can use a present continuous verb form (or any other tense) with a gerund! For example:
I 'm enjoying reading this book.
Infinitives
Unfortunately, not all verbs are used with gerunds. Some verbs are used with the infinitive (verb + to + verb). For example:
I want to come to your party.
Sarah has decided to get married.
I 'm hoping to win the lottery.
So, you need to remember which verbs to use with gerunds, and which verbs to use with infinitives.
| Elementary/Pre-Intermediate Level Verbs | |
|---|---|
| like, love, hate, don't mind, can't stand, enjoy, finish | + verb-ing (gerund) |
| would like, want, need, hope, expect, plan, decide, arrange, learn | + to + infinitive |
| Intermediate/Upper-Intermediate Level Verbs | |
|---|---|
| miss, practise, admit, deny, suggest, recommend, consider, imagine, fancy, postpone, avoid | + verb-ing (gerund) |
| seem, tend, offer, pretend, manage, agree, appear, can't wait, can't afford, prepare | + to + infinitive |
The teacher loves teaching grammar!
Practice (elementary verbs) Practice (intermediate verbs)