Infinitive or Gerund

Learn when to use the infinitive or the gerund form of verbs.

Video Lesson

Examples

Infinitive: Mean people usually refuse to help others.

Gerund: I can't imagine living away from my family and friends.

Definitions

Infinitive = to + verb

Example: Mean people usually refuse to help others.

Gerund = verb + ing

Example: I can't imagine living away from my family and friends.

Tip: Remember that some verbs can be followed by either an infinitive or a gerund, but the meaning may change!

Verb Patterns

Verbs used with infinitive Verbs used with gerund Verbs used with infinitive or gerund
  • ask
  • refuse
  • accept
  • expect
  • agree
  • promise
  • need
  • hope
  • plan
  • seem
  • want
  • decide
  • offer
  • manage
  • admit
  • avoid
  • enjoy
  • appreciate
  • imagine
  • recall
  • suggest
  • understand
  • mind
  • keep
  • finish
  • miss
  • like
  • love
  • hate
  • begin
  • intend
  • start
  • stop
  • prefer

Note: Some verbs change meaning depending on whether they're followed by an infinitive or gerund!

Expressions Used with Gerund

Expressions with "about"

  • be excited about
  • be worried about
  • complain about
  • dream about/of
  • talk about/of
  • think about/of

Expressions with "for"

  • be responsible for
  • apologize for
  • make an excuse for
  • have a reason for
  • blame ... for
  • forgive ... for
  • thank ... for

Other expressions

  • insist on
  • be interested in
  • be opposed to
  • be used to
  • look forward to
  • keep ... from
  • prevent ... from
  • stop ... from
  • can't stand
  • can't support

Remember: These expressions are always followed by a gerund (verb + ing)!

Practice

Complete the sentences with the correct form (infinitive or gerund) of the verb in parentheses.

1. The doctor advised me (drink) a lot of water.

2. He avoided (talk) to her.

3. I began (learn) Chinese.

4. I hope (see) you next week.

5. He claimed (be) an expert.

6. She blamed me for (ruin) her party.

7. I managed (reach) the top of the hill.

8. I look forward to (meet) you.

9. He apologized for (be) late.

10. She decided (go) to the party.