Skip to main content
Humanities LibreTexts

5.6.4: Grammar Presentation-Gerunds and Infinitives

  1. Last updated
  2. Save as PDF
  • Page ID
    349510

    • \( \newcommand{\vecs}[1]{\overset { \scriptstyle \rightharpoonup} {\mathbf{#1}} } \)

    \( \newcommand{\vecd}[1]{\overset{-\!-\!\rightharpoonup}{\vphantom{a}\smash {#1}}} \)

    \( \newcommand{\dsum}{\displaystyle\sum\limits} \)

    \( \newcommand{\dint}{\displaystyle\int\limits} \)

    \( \newcommand{\dlim}{\displaystyle\lim\limits} \)

    \( \newcommand{\id}{\mathrm{id}}\) \( \newcommand{\Span}{\mathrm{span}}\)

    ( \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.

    1. Saving your money can help you reach your goals.
    2. Spending too much money is not wise.
    3. Baking pies is my hobby.
    4. 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
    Table 6 Verbs Followed by Gerunds

    1.2.4.1.2.1. Examples

    1. Emily enjoys jogging in the mornings.
    2. I suggest enrolling in a math class.
    3. 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.

    1. ________________________ is exciting!
    2. ________________________ is not exciting.
    3. ________________________ is easy.
    4. ________________________ is not easy.
    5. My favorite activity is ________________________.
    6. Some of my favorite activities are ________________________ and ________________________.
    7. 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?

    1. My hobby is baking pies. (noun)
    2. The baby is sleeping soundly. (verb)
    3. 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.

    1. The students were learning writing skills.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    2. The next step is reviewing notes.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    3. Elena’s mistake was trusting people she didn’t know.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    4. She was talking to her friends and having fun.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    5. The police saw the speeding car immediately.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    6. She is eliminating injustice.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. adjective
    7. The increasing prices has caused a lot of uncertainty.
      1. verb
      2. gerund
      3. 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.

    1. Jinan is excited about playing with her cousins.
    2. 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.”

    1. People have many different strategies for dealing with stressful situations — some helpful, and some not so helpful. (Paragraph 1)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    2. When you are facing a stressful situation, learn to relax so that you can carefully evaluate how you should respond. (Paragraph 12)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    3. Finding emotional support from others or asking for help can be instrumental to maintain emotional health during a difficult period. (Paragraph 5)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    4. Instead of facing the problem, the person decides to reject its existence or minimize its importance. (Paragraph 9)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    5. 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)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    6. A process involves defining the issue, brainstorming alternatives, evaluating and choosing between these alternatives, and implementing solutions. (Paragraph 6)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    7. Developing a plan can help lessen stress that comes from the unknown. (Paragraph 6)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    8. 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)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    9. Thinking about tragic events helps people prepare for unforeseen difficult circumstances. (Paragraph 4)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. not a gerund
    10. Some literary critics believe that this is the reason why people enjoy reading about, watching, and analyzing tragedies.
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. object of a preposition
      4. 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.

    1. I want to live a long happy life. (to live = infinitive)
    2. I gave a gift to my mom. (to = preposition)
    3. We studied from 6PM to 10PM. (to = preposition)
    4. Fatima has to visit the embassy. (has to=modal)
    5. Eçe used to live in Cairo, Egypt. (used to=modal)
    6. 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*
    Table 7 Verbs Followed by Infinitives

    * verb + noun/pronoun + infinitive

    ** verb + infinitive or verb + noun/pronoun +infinitive

    1. Geraldo wants to transfer to a university.
    2. His mother wants him to stay close to home.
    3. 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.

    1. I went to the store to buy the missing ingredients for tonight’s dinner.
    2. I am learning Arabic (in order) to communicate with my mother-in-law.
    3. (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.

    1. go to the beach
    2. learn English
    3. stop at a store
    4. eat a cake
    5. exercise daily
    6. go to the mountains
    7. sit at a table

    1.2.4.2.4. Adjectives + Infinitives

    Adjectives can be followed by an infinitive. Read the examples below.

    1. Tomoki was surprised to see his mother at the store.
    2. 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.

    1. excited to
    2. relieved to
    3. sad to
    4. ready to
    5. determined to
    6. afraid to
    7. difficult to
    8. dangerous to
    9. impolite to
    10. 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.

    1. Your reluctance to help is frustrating.
    2. My goal to lose ten pounds is reasonable.
    3. 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
    Table 8 Nouns Followed by Infinitives

    *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.

    1. I have a unique ability to…
    2. Mothers might make a promise to their children to… (promise to)
    3. Hasan called his friend to make a request to…
    4. There are many strategies to…
    5. I have made many attempts to…
    6. My friend gave me advice to…
    7. Mario set a reminder on his phone to… (reminder to)
    8. Sarah has an opportunity to…
    Image 8 Photo by Pixaby CC BY
    Image 8 Photo by Pixaby CC BY

    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.

    1. Anticipation is a way to reduce the stress of a difficult challenge. (Paragraph 4)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. infinitive of purpose
      4. adjective followed by infinitive
      5. noun followed by infinitive
      6. not an infinitive.
    2. A coping mechanism is a method to deal with stress or conflict. (Paragraph 1)
      1. subject
      2. object
      3. infinitive of purpose
      4. adjective followed by infinitive
      5. noun followed by infinitive
      6. not an infinitive.
    3. 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.

    4. 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.

    5. 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.

    6. 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.

    7. 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.

    8. 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.

    9. 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.

    10. 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.

    11. 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.

    12. 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.

    13. 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.

    14. 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
    Table 9 Verbs Followed by Either a Gerund or Infinitive with No Significant Change in Meaning

    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
    Table 10 Verbs Followed by a Gerund or Infinitive with a Significant Change in Meaning

    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.”

    1. Felipe hates going to the dentist. Felipe hates to go to the dentist.

      a. different

      b. same

    2. Tamara tried to shut the window. Tamara tried shutting the window.

      a. different

      b. same

    3. Lee started studying every day. Lee started to study every day.

      a. different

      b. same

    4. Sukinah loves to receive flowers. Sukinah loves receiving flowers.

      a. different

      b. same

    5. I regret saying those words. I regret to say these words.

      a. different

      b. same

    6. Laura forgot to give him the message. Laura forgot giving him the message.

      a. different

      b. same

    7. Hadi continues to make progress with his behavior. Hadi continues making progress with his behavior.

      a. different

      b. same

    8. Mai prefers to join a club on campus. Mai prefers joining a club on campus.

      a. different

      b. same

    9. Alejandro remembers to pack a lunch. Alejandro remembers packing a lunch.

      a. different

      b. same

    10. 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.

    1. 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.

    Image 9 Photo by Pixaby CC BY
    Image 9 Photo by Pixaby CC BY
    1. 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.

    2. 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.

    3. 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.

    4. 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.

    5. 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.

    6. 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.

    7. 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.

    1. Isaac agreed _______ to Disneyland with us.

      a. to go

      b. going

    2. I denied _______ the last slice of cake.

      a. to take

      b. taking

    3. Melissa enjoys _______ for her patients in the hospital. She’s a great nurse.

      a. to care

      b. caring

    4. We plan _______ a new house next year.

      a. to buy

      b. buying

    5. Elijah keeps _______ late. He never arrives on time!

      a. to wake up

      b. waking up

    6. I appreciate you _______ me time to prepare for the meeting.

      a. to give

      b. giving

    7. The boy wants _______ at his grandmother’s house, but he must go home.

      a. to stay

      b. staying

    8. The teacher promised _______ the final grades by Monday morning.

      a. to give

      b. giving

    9. The teacher suggested _______ an appointment with a counselor.

      a. to make

      b. making

    10. Mufeed refused _______ to the doctor even though he was in so much pain.

      a. to go

      b. going

    11. Jorge’s classmates finished _______ the exam, but he wasn’t finished yet.

      a. to take

      b. taking

    12. Irene imagined _______ in a log cabin surrounded by nature.

      a. to relax

      b. relaxing

    13. Sarah avoids _______ too much sugar.

      a. to eat

      b. eating

    14. Children sometimes pretend _______ superheroes.

      a. to be

      b. being

    15. I hesitate _______ money from my parents.

      a. to borrow

      b. borrowing

    16. Jawad considered _______ another food truck, but he decided _______.

      a. to open, to wait

      b. to open, waiting

      c. opening, waiting

      d. opening, to wait

    17. Robert went _______ with his friends.

      a. to shop

      b. shopping

    18. Students need _______ their responsibilities and time.

      a. to manage

      b. managing

    19. I can’t afford _______ expensive, fancy coffee every day. I don’t have enough money.

      a. to buy

      b. buying

    20. 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.

    1. He read the whole book without use a dictionary. without using
    2. She insisted in driving me home.
    3. I enjoy to walk in the park.
    4. He went to shop after work.
    5. I decided buy a new car.
    6. Find a good job is important.
    7. Is important to find a good job.
    8. I decided to bought a new car.
    9. He wants that I drive.
    10. It’s important to me to find a job.
    11. I called the company for make an appointment.
    12. I use to live with my parents. Now I live alone.
    13. The teacher expects we do the homework.
    14. It’s necessary for he to be on time.
    15. I need to went to the library last weekend.

    “Correcting Errors” is derived from “Error Correction” by Nooshi Borhan licensed under CC BY-NC.

    This page titled 5.6.4: Grammar Presentation-Gerunds and Infinitives is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Rebecca Al Haider via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.