Mastering Infinitives and Gerunds in English Grammar

Mastering Verb Forms: Infinitive and Gerund Usage

Using the Infinitive (To + Verb)

The infinitive form (to + base verb) is used in the following contexts:

• After adjectives.
• To express purpose.

Verbs Always Followed by the Infinitive

The following verbs are typically followed immediately by the infinitive:

• I can’t afford to go on holidays abroad.
• The students agreed to be here on time.
• He appeared to be happy.
• The students asked me to postpone the exam.
• He begged me not to leave him.
• He claimed to be Michael Jackson’s son.
• If you dare to insult me, I’ll call the police.
• I have decided to buy a new car.
• The citizens are demanding the government to lower taxes.
• I expect you to pass the course.
• If you fail to fill in the form, you won’t be able to sign up for the course.
• I hope to see you soon!
• When will you learn to drive?
• I managed to get here on time.
• I need to do some homework this evening.
• Sarah offered not to see me.
• I plan to retire at 63.
• She pretended not to see me.
• I promise to marry you.
• He refused to marry her.
• The course seems to be boring.
• I can’t wait to see you soon!
• I wish to move to a house in the outskirts.

Verbs Followed by Object + Infinitive

These verbs require an object (noun or object pronoun: me, you, him, her, us, them) before the infinitive:

• The man advised us not to swim in the lake.
• I don’t allow you to smoke in class.
• I begged her to stop bullying me.
• Lou encouraged her students to write the abstract in English.
• The teachers have forbidden us to go outside at break times.
• The dentist forced me to use braces.
• I want to persuade my parents to buy me a new laptop.
• We requested the principal to go out.
• The new Japanese student taught us to make sushi.
• Luismi told us not to leave.
• I warned him not to touch the fire.

Using the Bare Infinitive (Infinitive Without To)

Use the bare infinitive after certain perception verbs and causative verbs when followed by an object:

Verbs: see, hear, listen to, smell, watch, make, let

• I saw Alejandro and Laura kiss.
• The teachers make us do a lot of homework.
• My parents let me go out till 3 a.m.

Note: Perception verbs (like see) can also be followed by the gerund/present participle to emphasize the action in progress:

• I saw Alejandro and Laura kissing.

Using the Gerund (-ing Form)

The gerund is used in the following contexts:

• After prepositions:
  • I’m thinking of buying a Ferrari.
  • I’m tired of waiting for you.
• As the subject of a sentence:
  • Smoking seriously damages your health.
  • Swimming is my favorite sport.
• With some expressions:
  • It’s no use trying to convince her.
  • There’s no point worrying about it now.

Verbs Always Followed by the Gerund

• John admitted stealing the money.
• I try to avoid taking the tube.
• I can’t help falling in love with you.
• I can’t stand losing!
• Have you ever considered living abroad?
• I don’t mind doing the dishes.
• I don’t feel like dancing.
• You have to give up talking in class.
• Can you imagine living on a desert island?
• The witness mentioned seeing someone in the apartment at that time.
• Would you mind walking me home?
• I miss being with you.
• Laura suggested having a surprise party.

Special Case: The Verb "Like"

• I like dancing. (British English)
• I like to dance. (American English)
• I like reading.

Important Note: When referring to a specific, single action, the infinitive is preferred, even in British English:

• I like to read the sports newspapers on Sunday mornings. (Refers to a specific habit or action.)

Also, use the infinitive after "Would like":

• Would you like to come with me to the party?