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  4. Gerund vs. Infinitive (e.g. enjoy doing vs. want to do)
Parts of Speech & Usage

Gerund vs. Infinitive (e.g. enjoy doing vs. want to do)

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In English, some verbs are followed by the gerund (verb + -ing), and others by the infinitive (to + base verb). The choice depends on the main verb and how the sentence is structured. It’s not always logical — so you have to learn the patterns.

1. Verbs followed by a gerund (verb + -ing)

Use the gerund after verbs that describe likes, dislikes, and general activities.

  • She enjoys reading historical novels.
  • They avoid driving during rush hour.
  • I don’t mind helping with the dishes.

Common verbs followed by the gerund:

  • enjoy, avoid, admit, consider, suggest, finish, mind, keep, recommend, imagine

2. Verbs followed by the infinitive (to + verb)

Use the infinitive after verbs that talk about plans, hopes, decisions, and offers.

  • He wants to travel abroad this year.
  • They decided to cancel the meeting.
  • We hope to see you soon.

Common verbs followed by the infinitive:

  • want, hope, decide, plan, agree, offer, need, learn, promise, refuse

3. Some verbs can take both (but with a change in meaning)

  • I remember going to that beach as a child. (a memory)
  • I remember to lock the door. (a reminder to do something)

Other verbs like this include: stop, forget, try, regret

💡 Tip

  • Verbs of enjoyment or habits → usually followed by the gerund.
  • Verbs of decisions, intentions, or plans → usually followed by the infinitive.
  • Learn common verb patterns in context — not all are logical!

Test your knowledge 📝

Question 1 sur 8Score: 0/8

She enjoys ___ to the cinema on weekends.

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