Topic Explanation and Use
Core idea
After some verbs, only one grammar pattern sounds natural.
Some verbs are followed by a gerund (-ing), some by an infinitive (to + base verb), and some patterns change after prepositions. These are fixed grammar patterns, not free choices.
Use the right verb pattern after the first word. If the first verb is wrong, the whole sentence will sound off even if the meaning is clear.
At A2 level, keep sentences short and clear first. Add extra words only when they help meaning.
Use it here
- After a preposition, use the -ing form.
- Learn common verb partners as full chunks: decide to, avoid doing, interested in doing.
- Check whether changing from -ing to infinitive changes the meaning of the sentence.
Watch it work
Remember this
- Learn the first word and the next verb form together as one chunk.
- Use the -ing form after prepositions.
- Check whether the first verb takes -ing, to + verb, or both with a meaning change.
- Test the sentence slot again after you change the verb form.
- Keep the pattern simple enough that the meaning stays clear.
Real-World Examples with Verb + gerund (ing form)
Example 1
Too weakShe avoided to answer the question directly.
BetterShe avoided answering the question directly.
This correction matches the intended meaning and keeps Verb + gerund (ing form) natural.
Example 2
Too weakThey decided expanding the program next term.
BetterThey decided to expand the program next term.
This version sounds more natural because Verb + gerund (ing form) fits the sentence clearly.
Common Errors with Verb + gerund (ing form)
Common problem 1
using the wrong form after the first verb or preposition
WeakShe avoided to answer the question directly.
StrongShe avoided answering the question directly.
Fix: learn each verb pattern as a chunk and keep the next form consistent
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: use the -ing form 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: check whether the verb pattern changes the meaning
Interactive Practice Lab
Practice
First notice the right form. Then build it yourself. Then fix it in a full sentence.
Score: 0/4
Read for meaning first. If the meaning changes, the grammar usually has to change too.
1. Quick pick
Choose the stronger sentence for Verb + gerund (ing form).
2. Build it
Put this Verb + gerund (ing form) sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Type the fix
Rewrite the sentence so Verb + gerund (ing form) is correct.
Fix this: The manager admitted to make a planning mistake.
4. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
He is interested in joining the evening class.
He is interested to joining the evening class.
We discussed moving the workshop to Friday.
We discussed to move the workshop to Friday.
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