Verbs that can be followed by both a to-infinitive and an -ing form are known as verbs of

perception. These verbs describe how we perceive things, such as hearing, seeing, feeling,
smelling, and tasting. In this essay, we will discuss the differences between these two
forms and when to use them.

To-infinitive verbs are used to describe the purpose or intention of an action. For example,
"I went to the store to buy milk." The to-infinitive is used to express the purpose of going
to the store. Similarly, "I want to study abroad to improve my language skills." Here, the
to-infinitive expresses the purpose of wanting to study abroad.

On the other hand, the -ing form of verbs is used to describe an ongoing action or event.
For instance, "I am walking to the store" means that I am currently in the process of
walking to the store. Similarly, "I enjoy studying abroad" means that I am currently
enjoying the experience of studying abroad.

In some cases, using the to-infinitive or the -ing form can change the meaning of the
sentence. For example, "I stopped to smoke" means that I stopped what I was doing in
order to smoke a cigarette. But, "I stopped smoking" means that I quit smoking altogether.

Some common verbs that can be followed by both a to-infinitive and an -ing form include:

Start

Begin

Continue

Love

Like

Prefer

Hate

Intend

Attempt

Regret
Here are 20 exercises to practice verbs + to-infinitive and -ing form:

1. I enjoy _______ (read) books in my free time.

2. She decided _______ (take) a break from work.
3. They plan _______ (travel) to Europe next summer.
4. He suggested _______ (go) to the beach for the weekend.
5. We need _______ (buy) groceries before dinner.
6. She hopes _______ (get) a promotion at work soon.
7. They avoid _______ (eat) fast food.
8. He enjoys _______ (watch) movies on Friday nights.
9. She agreed _______ (meet) him at the coffee shop.
10. They plan _______ (start) a new business next year.
11. She suggested _______ (visit) the art museum downtown.
12. He loves _______ (play) video games in his free time.
13. We need _______ (clean) the house before our guests arrive.
14. She hopes _______ (win) the lottery someday.
15. They avoid _______ (drink) too much alcohol.
16. He enjoys _______ (listen) to music on his commute to work.
17. She agreed _______ (help) him with his project.
18. They plan _______ (take) a trip to the mountains next winter.
19. She suggested _______ (try) the new restaurant in town.
20. He loves _______ (cook) dinner for his friends.