Gerunds and Infinitives are crucial for selecting the correct verb form that follows certain verbs, adjectives, and prepositions. This lesson will guide you in determining when to use a gerund or an infinitive, enhancing your grammatical precision and fluency in English.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectShe avoided to answer the question directly.
BetterShe avoided answering the question directly.
'Avoid' is followed by a gerund, not an infinitive.
Example 2
IncorrectThey decided expanding the program next term.
BetterThey decided to expand the program next term.
'Decide' is followed by an infinitive, not a gerund.
How It Works
Meaning
Gerunds are verb forms ending in -ing that function as nouns, while infinitives are the base form of the verb preceded by 'to'.
They follow certain verbs, adjectives, or expressions, and choosing the correct form is crucial for grammatical accuracy.
At the B2 level, mastering these forms helps create precise and fluent sentences.
Use it when
- After verbs like 'enjoy', 'avoid', or 'consider', use a gerund.
- After verbs like 'decide', 'plan', or 'want', use an infinitive.
- Use a gerund after a verb followed by a preposition.
- Use an infinitive to express purpose.
See it
Quick rules
- Use gerunds after verbs expressing likes or dislikes.
- Use infinitives to express intentions or plans.
- After prepositions, always use gerunds.
- Be aware of verbs that can take both forms but change meaning (e.g., 'stop').
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
using the wrong form after the first verb or preposition
WeakHe is interested to joining the evening class.
StrongHe is interested in joining the evening class.
Fix: Use a gerund after prepositions like 'in'.
Common problem 2
using the infinitive after a preposition
WeakShe is interested in to join the course.
StrongShe is interested in joining the course.
Fix: Always use a gerund after prepositions.
Common problem 3
changing meaning by choosing the wrong verb pattern
WeakHe stopped to smoke in the office.
StrongHe stopped smoking in the office.
Fix: 'Stop to' indicates intention to start an action, while 'stop -ing' means to cease an action.
Practice Lab
Practice
First, identify the correct form. Then, build the sentence yourself. Finally, fix errors in full sentences.
Score: 0/3
Focus on the meaning first. If the meaning changes, adjust the grammar accordingly.
1. Quick pick
Choose the correct sentence for gerunds and infinitives.
2. Build it
Arrange the sentence using gerunds and infinitives correctly.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Classify each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
They plan to travel next summer.
They plan traveling next summer.
He stopped to talk to his manager.
He stopped talking to his manager.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Choosing correctly between gerunds and infinitives affects the clarity and accuracy of your communication. Mastery of these forms allows you to express yourself more precisely, making your English sound natural and professional.
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