Infinitives & Gerunds Flashcard

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 read'.

Front

What is a gerund?

Back

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

Front

When do we use gerunds after certain verbs?

Back

Gerunds are used after certain verbs like 'enjoy', 'admit', 'keep', and 'suggest'. For example, 'I enjoy swimming'.

Front

When do we use infinitives after certain verbs?

Back

Infinitives are used after certain verbs like 'want', 'need', 'decide', and 'hope'. For example, 'I want to go'.

Front

What is the difference between 'I like to swim' and 'I like swimming'?

Back

Both are correct, but 'I like swimming' emphasizes the activity itself, while 'I like to swim' can imply a preference for the action.

Front

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

Back

'Reading is my favorite hobby.' Here, 'reading' is the subject of the sentence.

Front

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

Back

'To read is enjoyable.' Here, 'to read' is the subject of the sentence.

Front

What is the structure of a gerund phrase?

Back

A gerund phrase consists of a gerund and any modifiers or objects. For example, 'Swimming in the ocean is fun'.

Front

What is the structure of an infinitive phrase?

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An infinitive phrase consists of an infinitive and any modifiers or objects. For example, 'To win the game is my goal'.

Front

Can gerunds and infinitives be used interchangeably?

Back

Not always. Some verbs require a gerund, while others require an infinitive. For example, 'I enjoy reading' (gerund) vs. 'I want to read' (infinitive).