LANG CHEAT SHEET

Gerunds vs Infinitives

Some verbs are followed by the gerund (-ing): enjoy, avoid, finish, suggest. I enjoy reading books.

Back to grammar
  • Some verbs are followed by the gerund (-ing): enjoy, avoid, finish, suggest. I enjoy reading books.
  • Some verbs are followed by the infinitive (to + verb): want, decide, hope, promise. I want to travel.
  • Some verbs can be followed by either, sometimes with a change in meaning: I stopped smoking. / I stopped to smoke.
PRONOUN
+
-
Verb + gerund
I enjoy reading books before bed.
I don't enjoy waking up early.
Verb + infinitive
She decided to study abroad.
He doesn't want to leave yet.
Both, different meaning
I stopped smoking last year.
I didn't stop to smoke, I was in a hurry.
PRONOUN
QUESTION
ANSWER
Verb + gerund
Do you enjoy cooking?
Yes, I really enjoy it.
Verb + infinitive
Did you decide to go?
Yes, I decided to go.
Both, different meaning
Did you remember to lock the door?
Yes, I remembered to lock it.

Complete the sentences with the gerund or infinitive form of the verb in brackets.

  1. I really enjoy (swim) in the sea.
  2. She decided (move) to another city.
  3. We finished (clean) the house before lunch.
  4. They promised (help) us with the project.
  5. He avoids (eat) sugar before bed.
  6. Do you want (come) with us tonight?
  7. I suggest (book) the tickets early.
  8. She hopes (pass) the exam next week.