Gerunds & Infinitives
Master the art of using -ing forms and “to” verbs
What Are Gerunds and Infinitives?
In English, when we want to use a verb after another verb, we need to change its form. We have two main options: gerunds (verb + -ing) and infinitives (to + verb).
Gerund: I enjoy working on creative projects.
Infinitive: I want to work on creative projects.
Verbs Followed by Gerunds
Some verbs are always followed by gerunds. These often express likes, dislikes, or ongoing activities.
✓ She enjoys reading novels.
✓ They finished eating dinner.
✓ I avoid driving in heavy traffic.
✗ She enjoys to read novels. ❌
Verbs Followed by Infinitives
Other verbs are always followed by infinitives. These often express desires, decisions, or future actions.
✓ I want to learn Spanish.
✓ She decided to quit her job.
✓ They hope to travel next year.
✗ I want learning Spanish. ❌
Verbs That Can Take Both
Some verbs can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive, often with similar meanings.
✓ I started working at 9 AM.
✓ I started to work at 9 AM.
(Both are correct with similar meanings!)
Special Cases with Different Meanings
A few verbs change meaning depending on whether they’re followed by a gerund or infinitive:
Remember + gerund = recall a past action
→ I remember meeting you last year. (I have a memory of it)
Remember + infinitive = not forget to do something
→ Remember to call your mother. (Don’t forget!)
Stop + gerund = cease an activity
→ He stopped smoking. (He quit the habit)
Stop + infinitive = pause to do something
→ He stopped to smoke. (He paused what he was doing to have a cigarette)
Quick Tips
For gerunds: Think of ongoing activities, experiences, or things already happening.
For infinitives: Think of intentions, future plans, or purposes.
Test Your Understanding
Choose the correct form for each sentence. Check your answers as you go!
