Infinitives and gerunds

Front

What is an infinitive?

Back

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by 'to'. For example, 'to run', 'to eat', 'to sleep'.

Front

What is a gerund?

Back

A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun. For example, 'running', 'eating', 'sleeping'.

Front

When should you use a gerund after a preposition?

Back

You should use a gerund after a preposition. For example, 'I am interested in learning new languages.'

Front

When should you use an infinitive after certain verbs?

Back

Use an infinitive after certain verbs like 'want', 'need', 'hope', and 'decide'. For example, 'I want to go to the movies.'

Front

What is the difference between 'stop to do' and 'stop doing'?

Back

'Stop to do' means to stop in order to do something else, while 'stop doing' means to cease an action. For example, 'I stopped to eat' vs. 'I stopped eating.'

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a gerund as the subject.

Back

'Swimming is my favorite hobby.' Here, 'swimming' is the subject of the sentence.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using an infinitive as the subject.

Back

'To swim is my favorite hobby.' Here, 'to swim' is the subject of the sentence.

Front

What is the rule for using gerunds after certain verbs?

Back

Some verbs are followed by gerunds, such as 'enjoy', 'avoid', 'consider', and 'suggest'. For example, 'I enjoy reading books.'

Front

What is the rule for using infinitives after certain adjectives?

Back

Some adjectives are followed by infinitives, such as 'happy', 'eager', and 'afraid'. For example, 'I am happy to help you.'

Front

What is a common mistake when using gerunds and infinitives?

Back

A common mistake is using the wrong form after certain verbs. For example, saying 'I enjoy to swim' instead of 'I enjoy swimming'.