2.4: Grammar Presentation-Gerunds and Infinitives
- Page ID
- 308476
\( \newcommand{\vecs}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vecd}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash {#1}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\id}{\mathrm{id}}\) \( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\) \( \newcommand{\range}{\mathrm{range}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\RealPart}{\mathrm{Re}}\) \( \newcommand{\ImaginaryPart}{\mathrm{Im}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Argument}{\mathrm{Arg}}\) \( \newcommand{\norm}[1]{\| #1 \|}\)
\( \newcommand{\inner}[2]{\langle #1, #2 \rangle}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
\( \newcommand{\id}{\mathrm{id}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)
\( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\range}{\mathrm{range}\,}\)
\( \newcommand{\RealPart}{\mathrm{Re}}\)
\( \newcommand{\ImaginaryPart}{\mathrm{Im}}\)
\( \newcommand{\Argument}{\mathrm{Arg}}\)
\( \newcommand{\norm}[1]{\| #1 \|}\)
\( \newcommand{\inner}[2]{\langle #1, #2 \rangle}\)
\( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\) \( \newcommand{\AA}{\unicode[.8,0]{x212B}}\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorA}[1]{\vec{#1}} % arrow\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorAt}[1]{\vec{\text{#1}}} % arrow\)
\( \newcommand{\vectorB}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorC}[1]{\textbf{#1}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorD}[1]{\overrightarrow{#1}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectorDt}[1]{\overrightarrow{\text{#1}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vectE}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash{\mathbf {#1}}}} \)
\( \newcommand{\vecs}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)
\( \newcommand{\vecd}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash {#1}}} \)
\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)1.2.4.1. Gerunds
Gerunds are -ing forms of verbs used as nouns. They can function in a sentence as a subject, object, or object of a preposition.
Reading is fun. (subject)
I enjoy reading. (object)
Jose is interested in reading that book. (object of a preposition)
1.2.4.1.1. Subjects
Gerunds can be subjects of sentences. Understanding gerunds as subjects is especially important for writing because of subject-verb agreement. Let’s look at the following examples.
- Saving your money can help you reach your goals.
- Spending too much money is not wise.
- Baking pies is my hobby.
- Baking pies and crocheting hats are my hobbies.
Notice that in the third example the verb is singular although the preceding word is plural. This is because the subject is baking pies-one action. In the fourth example, the subject is plural because there are two hobbies baking and crocheting.
1.2.4.1.2. Objects
Gerunds can be directly after a verb. In this structure, they function as an object. Below is a list of verbs followed by gerunds.
|
admit |
anticipate |
appreciate |
avoid |
|
consider |
defend |
delay |
deny |
|
discontinue |
discuss |
dislike |
enjoy |
|
explain |
fear |
finish |
go (expression) |
|
imagine |
keep |
mention |
miss |
|
practice |
recommend |
suggest |
understand |
1.2.4.1.2.1. Examples
- Emily enjoys jogging in the mornings.
- I suggest enrolling in a math class.
- Mariam keeps hitting her brother.
For more information on this topic, watch this video: Gerunds and Gerund Phrases as Subjects
1.2.4.1.2.2. Exercise 3-Subject and Object Gerund Practice
Complete the sentences about yourself. Use gerunds.
- ________________________ is exciting!
- ________________________ is not exciting.
- ________________________ is easy.
- ________________________ is not easy.
- My favorite activity is ________________________.
- Some of my favorite activities are ________________________ and ________________________.
- A great way to improve my English is __________________________________________________.
1.2.4.1.2.3. Gerund Objects versus Progressive Verbs
Nouns, adjectives, and verbs can be formed using -ing. At times it can be tricky to distinguish their function in a sentence. Look at the examples below. Which -ing is a gerund (noun), and which is a verb in the progressive tense?
- My hobby is baking pies. (noun)
- The baby is sleeping soundly. (verb)
- The sleeping baby looks so peaceful. (adjective)
The first example has a gerund as an object (more technically a subject complement). The sentence can be reversed to read, “Baking pies is my hobby.” The second sentence has sleeping as a verb in the progressive tense.
Exercise 4-Verb or Gerund?
Look at the sentences below and decide whether the -ing word in the verb, gerund, or adjective.
- The students were learning writing skills.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- The next step is reviewing notes.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- Elena’s mistake was trusting people she didn’t know.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- She was talking to her friends and having fun.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- The police saw the speeding car immediately.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- She is eliminating injustice.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
- The increasing prices has caused a lot of uncertainty.
- verb
- gerund
- adjective
1.2.4.1.3. Objects of Prepositions
Gerunds can also be objects of prepositions. This means that they are after a preposition. This use is very common.
- Jinan is excited about playing with her cousins.
- Bryce got in trouble for eating all the cookies.
For more information on this topic, watch this video: Gerunds and Gerund Phrases as Objects of Prepositions
1.2.4.1.4. Exercise 5-Gerunds in Chapter 2’s Reading
Read the sentences below from this chapter’s readings. Determine the function of the gerund in the sentences as either a subject, object, or object of a preposition. Be careful! I’ve put some -ing words that are verbs or adjectives. In that case, select “not a gerund.”
- People have many different strategies for dealing with stressful situations — some helpful, and some not so helpful. (Paragraph 1)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- When you are facing a stressful situation, learn to relax so that you can carefully evaluate how you should respond. (Paragraph 12)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Finding emotional support from others or asking for help can be instrumental to maintain emotional health during a difficult period. (Paragraph 5)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Instead of facing the problem, the person decides to reject its existence or minimize its importance. (Paragraph 9)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- For example, a husband who feels angry at his wife may accuse her of being the angry one instead of admitting that he is actually the angry one. (Paragraph 10)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- A process involves defining the issue, brainstorming alternatives, evaluating and choosing between these alternatives, and implementing solutions. (Paragraph 6)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Developing a plan can help lessen stress that comes from the unknown. (Paragraph 6)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Sigmund Freud, the famous psychoanalyst who was the first person to study the significance of dreams, is credited with popularizing the idea of denial. (Paragraph 9)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Thinking about tragic events helps people prepare for unforeseen difficult circumstances. (Paragraph 4)
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
- Some literary critics believe that this is the reason why people enjoy reading about, watching, and analyzing tragedies.
- subject
- object
- object of a preposition
- not a gerund
1.2.4.2. Infinitives
Infinitives are [to + the base form of a verb]. Unlike gerunds, they can be more than a noun; they can also function as adjectives. The word “to” not followed by a base verb is more than likely a preposition. “Have to” and “used to” are modals followed by a base verb; they are not infinitives. Look at the examples below.
- I want to live a long happy life. (to live = infinitive)
- I gave a gift to my mom. (to = preposition)
- We studied from 6PM to 10PM. (to = preposition)
- Fatima has to visit the embassy. (has to=modal)
- Eçe used to live in Cairo, Egypt. (used to=modal)
- Ruth is used to waking up early. (used to=adjective + preposition)
For more information on this topic, watch this video: Introduction to Infinitives
1.2.4.2.1. Subjects
Infinitives can function as the subject of a sentence although this use is rare and sounds odd to most native speakers.
To begin a sentence with an infinitive is rare.
1.2.4.2.2. Objects
Infinitives can function as the object of a sentence. Certain verbs are followed by infinitives. See the table below and the examples that follow.
|
agree |
appear |
arrange |
ask |
|
attempt |
choose |
decide |
demand |
|
deserve |
expect |
fail |
get |
|
hope |
learn |
need** |
offer |
|
pay |
plan |
pretend |
seem |
|
strive |
struggle |
tend |
threaten |
|
wait |
want** |
advise* |
allow* |
|
ask* |
encourage* |
expect* |
force* |
|
invite* |
order* |
remind* |
tell* |
* verb + noun/pronoun + infinitive
** verb + infinitive or verb + noun/pronoun +infinitive
- Geraldo wants to transfer to a university.
- His mother wants him to stay close to home.
- Habib offered to buy me coffee.
For more information on this topic, watch these videos: Infinitives, Part I-‘Verb +infinitive’ and Infinitives, Part II-‘verb + object + infinitive’
1.2.4.2.3. Infinitives of Purpose
A common use for infinitives is to provide a purpose. Look at the examples below.
- I went to the store to buy the missing ingredients for tonight’s dinner.
- I am learning Arabic (in order) to communicate with my mother-in-law.
- (In order) to communicate with my mother-in-law, I am learning Arabic.
If I were to ask you, “Why did I go to the store?”, you might respond, “to buy the missing ingredients for tonight’s dinner.” Your answer is the reason or purpose. The second and third examples demonstrate how to use “in order to”; however, “in order” is optional. Infinitives of purpose can be at the end of the main clause or in front.
1.2.4.2.3.1. Exercise 6-Infinitives of Purpose Practice
Look at the situations below. Form sentences by adding an infinitive of purpose to the verb phrases. Share your answers with your group. Use the example as a guide.
Example: go to the store
I went to the store to buy the missing ingredients for tonight’s dinner.
- go to the beach
- learn English
- stop at a store
- eat a cake
- exercise daily
- go to the mountains
- sit at a table
1.2.4.2.4. Adjectives + Infinitives
Adjectives can be followed by an infinitive. Read the examples below.
- Tomoki was surprised to see his mother at the store.
- It is important to wear a seatbelt.
Surprised and important are adjectives. Immediately after them are infinitives.
For more information on this topic, watch these videos: Infinitives as Subject/Infinitives after Adjectives and (ESL): Infinitives After Adjectives and Nouns
1.2.4.2.4.1. Exercise 7-Adjectives + Infinitives Practice
Create sentences by adding infinitives to the adjectives below. Use the example as a guide.
Example: important
It is important to wear a seatbelt.
- excited to
- relieved to
- sad to
- ready to
- determined to
- afraid to
- difficult to
- dangerous to
- impolite to
- necessary to
1.2.4.2.5. Nouns + Infinitives
Nouns are often followed by infinitives. While most adjectives are before nouns, infinitives as adjectives are after the noun they describe. Look at the examples below.
- Your reluctance to help is frustrating.
- My goal to lose ten pounds is reasonable.
- I am happy with his decision to take the day off.
Below is a list of common nouns that are followed by infinitives.
|
ability |
advice |
arrangement |
attempt |
|
chance |
choice |
decision |
demand |
|
dream |
failure |
goal |
intention |
|
motivation |
need |
offer |
opportunity |
|
permission |
plan |
promise |
proposal |
|
reminder |
request |
requirement |
suggestion |
|
tendency |
way |
willingness |
wish |
*Infinitives of purpose also follow nouns; however, there is a difference. Notice in the example I went to the store to buy the missing ingredients the infinitive to buy does not describe the store. In the example I am happy with his decision to take the day off to take is describing the decision.
1.2.4.2.5.1. Exercise 8-Using Infinitives After Nouns
Complete the sentences using an infinitive. Be prepared to share your answers with your group.
- I have a unique ability to…
- Mothers might make a promise to their children to… (promise to)
- Hasan called his friend to make a request to…
- There are many strategies to…
- I have made many attempts to…
- My friend gave me advice to…
- Mario set a reminder on his phone to… (reminder to)
- Sarah has an opportunity to…
1.2.4.2.6. Exercise 9-Infinitives in Chapter 2’s Reading
Read the sentences below from this chapter’s readings. Determine the function of the infinitive in the sentences as either a subject, object, infinitive of purpose, adjective followed by infinitive, noun followed by infinitive, or not an infinitive.
- Anticipation is a way to reduce the stress of a difficult challenge. (Paragraph 4)
- subject
- object
- infinitive of purpose
- adjective followed by infinitive
- noun followed by infinitive
- not an infinitive.
- A coping mechanism is a method to deal with stress or conflict. (Paragraph 1)
- subject
- object
- infinitive of purpose
- adjective followed by infinitive
- noun followed by infinitive
- not an infinitive.
- The brain’s response to worry enhances the effectiveness of this strategy. (Paragraph 5)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- It is a way for a person to “master” or minimize the effect of a stressful situation. (Paragraph 1)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- Stress releases neurohormones that strengthen your ability to seek emotional support. (Paragraph 5)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- Problem-solving can be strengthened by creativity, and it is a useful response to both simple and complex issues. (Paragraph 6)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- People of all ages and cultures respond to humor. (Paragraph 7)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- Denial is the refusal to accept truth or fact. (Paragraph 9)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- He explains it as the moment when a person is faced with a fact too uncomfortable to accept. (Paragraph 9)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- Instead of facing the problem, the person decides to reject its existence or minimize its importance despite overwhelming evidence proving the contrary. (Paragraph 9)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- In extreme cases, a person who has dissociative behavior may even invent a new imaginary world where they do not have to face an uncomfortable feeling or memory. (Paragraph 11)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- While dealing with stress, it is important to prioritize your physical, mental, and social well-being. (Paragraph 12)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- It is also important to maintain your mental health. (Paragraph 12)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
- It is when a person tries to “disconnect” from a traumatic or stressful event. (Paragraph 11)
a. subject
b. object
c. infinitive of purpose
d. adjective followed by infinitive
e. noun followed by infinitive
f. not an infinitive.
1.2.4.3. Gerund and Infinitive Practice
Some verbs can be followed by a gerund or an infinitive with no change in meaning. The table below lists these verbs.
|
begin |
continue |
hate |
like |
|
love |
prefer |
propose |
start |
There are some verbs that can be followed by a gerund and infinitive, but there is a significant change in the meaning. Look at the examples below. What is the difference in meaning?
Cynthia stopped smoking. = Cynthia quit smoking.
Cynthia stopped to smoke. = Cynthia stopped doing something so that she can smoke.
In the examples, using a gerund or infinitive determines whether Cynthia smoked or not. That’s a big difference in meaning. The table below lists the verbs that can be followed by a gerund or infinitive with a significant difference to the meaning.
|
forget |
quit |
regret |
remember |
|
stop |
try |
For more information on this topic, watch this video: Infinitives, Part III-‘verb + (object) + infinitive’ with a change in meaning!
1.2.4.3.1. Exercise 10-Change in meaning?
Look at the numbered sentence pairs. Is there a difference in meaning? If so, select “difference”; if they have the same meaning, select “same.”
- Felipe hates going to the dentist. Felipe hates to go to the dentist.
a. different
b. same
- Tamara tried to shut the window. Tamara tried shutting the window.
a. different
b. same
- Lee started studying every day. Lee started to study every day.
a. different
b. same
- Sukinah loves to receive flowers. Sukinah loves receiving flowers.
a. different
b. same
- I regret saying those words. I regret to say these words.
a. different
b. same
- Laura forgot to give him the message. Laura forgot giving him the message.
a. different
b. same
- Hadi continues to make progress with his behavior. Hadi continues making progress with his behavior.
a. different
b. same
- Mai prefers to join a club on campus. Mai prefers joining a club on campus.
a. different
b. same
- Alejandro remembers to pack a lunch. Alejandro remembers packing a lunch.
a. different
b. same
- Reza stopped drinking soda. Reza stopped to drink a soda.
a. different
b. same
1.2.4.3.2. Exercise 11-Difference in meaning
Read the sentences below and decide the intended meaning.
- The man forgot to turn in his homework.
a. The man did not turn in his homework. He forgot.
b. The man turned in his homework, then forgot that he did.
- The man forgot turning in his homework.
a. The man did not turn in his homework. He forgot.
b. The man turned in his homework, then forgot that he did.
- My son remembered to set his alarm.
a. My son set his alarm. He didn’t forget.
b. My son remembers the time that he set his alarm.
- My son remembered setting his alarm.
a. My son set his alarm. He didn’t forget.
b. My son remembers the time that he set his alarm.
- The boy stopped to pick a flower.
a. The boy stopped an activity so that he can pick a flower.
b. The boy used to pick flower, but now he’s quit.
- The boy stopped picking flowers.
a. The boy stopped an activity so that he can pick a flower.
b. The boy used to pick flower, but now he’s quit.
- I regret to tell you that you didn’t get accepted.
a. I am giving you bad news, and I don’t want to give you the bad news.
b. I told you something in the past, but I regret telling you. I should not have told you.
- I regret telling you that you didn’t get accepted.
a. I am telling you the secret now, and I don’t want to tell you.
b. I told you the message in the past, but I regret telling you. I should not have told you.
1.2.4.3.3. Exercise 12-Gerund or Infinitive?
Complete the sentences below with a gerund or infinitive. Use the tables from the gerund and infinitive sections to guide you.
- Isaac agreed _______ to Disneyland with us.
a. to go
b. going
- I denied _______ the last slice of cake.
a. to take
b. taking
- Melissa enjoys _______ for her patients in the hospital. She’s a great nurse.
a. to care
b. caring
- We plan _______ a new house next year.
a. to buy
b. buying
- Elijah keeps _______ late. He never arrives on time!
a. to wake up
b. waking up
- I appreciate you _______ me time to prepare for the meeting.
a. to give
b. giving
- The boy wants _______ at his grandmother’s house, but he must go home.
a. to stay
b. staying
- The teacher promised _______ the final grades by Monday morning.
a. to give
b. giving
- The teacher suggested _______ an appointment with a counselor.
a. to make
b. making
- Mufeed refused _______ to the doctor even though he was in so much pain.
a. to go
b. going
- Jorge’s classmates finished _______ the exam, but he wasn’t finished yet.
a. to take
b. taking
- Irene imagined _______ in a log cabin surrounded by nature.
a. to relax
b. relaxing
- Sarah avoids _______ too much sugar.
a. to eat
b. eating
- Children sometimes pretend _______ superheroes.
a. to be
b. being
- I hesitate _______ money from my parents.
a. to borrow
b. borrowing
- Jawad considered _______ another food truck, but he decided _______.
a. to open, to wait
b. to open, waiting
c. opening, waiting
d. opening, to wait
- Robert went _______ with his friends.
a. to shop
b. shopping
- Students need _______ their responsibilities and time.
a. to manage
b. managing
- I can’t afford _______ expensive, fancy coffee every day. I don’t have enough money.
a. to buy
b. buying
- Zainab misses _______ her neighbors when she walks in the mornings.
a. to see
b. seeing
“Grammar Presentation-Gerunds and Infinitives” is derived from “ESL Grammar: The Way You Like It” Book 3 by Don Bissonnette licensed under CC BY-NC.
1.2.4.3.4. Exercise 13-Correcting Errors
All of the following sentences contain a mistake. Find the mistakes, highlight and correct them. The first one is done for you as an example.
- He read the whole book without use a dictionary. without using
- She insisted in driving me home.
- I enjoy to walk in the park.
- He went to shop after work.
- I decided buy a new car.
- Find a good job is important.
- Is important to find a good job.
- I decided to bought a new car.
- He wants that I drive.
- It’s important to me to find a job.
- I called the company for make an appointment.
- I use to live with my parents. Now I live alone.
- The teacher expects we do the homework.
- It’s necessary for he to be on time.
- I need to went to the library last weekend.
“Correcting Errors” is derived from “Error Correction” by Nooshi Borhan licensed under CC BY-NC.