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Gerund
Grammar » A2 Grammar lessons and exercises » Infinitives and gerunds – verb patterns
 

We use the gerund (-ing)

 
1 When the verb is the subject of a sentence.

• Reading on tablets and phones isn’t very good for your eyes.

2 After a preposition.

• I’m tired of waiting. Let’s go home.

3 After some verbs.

• I don’t mind waiting.

• She recommended visiting this museum.

Common verbs followed by a gerund

 
Some common verbs that are followed by gerund are: avoid, enjoy, finish, hate, keep, like, love, don’t mind, prefer, recommend, spend time, stop,
suggest, etc.
 

Negative gerund
 
The negative form of the gerund is not + -ing.

• He enjoys not having to wake up early at weekends. 

Infinitive without to
 

We use the infinitive without to

 
1 After the auxiliary verb do, does, did in negative sentences and questions.

• He didn’t say anything. 

• Does Tim work with you?
• I don’t believe you. 

2 After modal verbs (will, can, must, should, might, may, etc.)

• You should come with us.

• I can’t play the guitar.

to + infinitive
 

We use the infinitive with to

 
1 After adjectives.

• It’s important to arrive early at the station.

2 To express a reason or purpose (why).

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• I went to Madrid to visit some family.

• I need time to study for the exam.

3 After question words.

• I don’t know what to eat.

• I want to learn how to play the guitar.

4 After some verbs.

• Don’t forget to call me.

• She seems to be distracted.

Common verbs followed by to + infinitive

 
Some common verbs that are followed by to infinitive are: decide, forget, help, hope, learn, need, offer, plan, promise, remember, seem, try, want, would
like, would love, would hate, would prefer, etc.
 

Negative form of to + infinitive

 
The negative form of to + infinitive is not to + infinitive.

• She decided not to enter the competition.

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