Deciding between a gerund (-ing form) or an infinitive (to + verb) after a main verb depends entirely on the main verb itself. Some verbs must be followed by a gerund, others require an infinitive, and a third group can take either, sometimes with a significant change in meaning.
Mastering advanced English grammar often comes down to understanding these subtle but crucial patterns. One of the most common challenges for learners is knowing when to use a gerund versus an infinitive after a verb. Getting this right can dramatically improve your fluency and make your speech sound more natural. This guide will break down the rules, provide clear lists of verbs, and explain the tricky cases where meaning changes, helping you navigate this complex topic with confidence.
Why Must I Choose Between a Gerund and an Infinitive?
In English, when one verb follows another, the second verb must change its form. It can't remain in its base form (e.g., *I enjoy study English* is incorrect). The form it takes—either a gerund (studying) or an infinitive (to study)—is dictated by the first, or main, verb. Think of the main verb as the 'boss' that tells the following verb what to do.
There are three main categories of these 'boss' verbs:
- Verbs that must be followed by a gerund.
- Verbs that must be followed by an infinitive.
- Verbs that can be followed by either, sometimes with a change in meaning.
Which Verbs Are Always Followed by a Gerund?
A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun. Certain verbs, often those expressing likes, dislikes, or specific actions, must be followed by a gerund.
Common Verbs That Take a Gerund (-ing form)
Memorizing this list is one of the most effective ways to master this rule. Here are some of the most common verbs that are always followed by a gerund:
- admit: He admitted stealing the document.
- avoid: You should avoid eating too late at night.
- consider: Have you considered moving to a new city?
- deny: The politician denied lying to the public.
- enjoy: I really enjoy learning about different cultures.
- finish: She hasn't finished writing her report yet.
- mind: Would you mind closing the window?
- quit: He quit smoking last year.
- suggest: I suggest reviewing the notes one more time.
Which Verbs Are Always Followed by an Infinitive?
An infinitive is the to + base verb form. These verbs are often related to future plans, intentions, or desires. Learning this list is just as important as the gerund list.
Common Verbs That Take an Infinitive (to + verb)
Here are some essential verbs that must be followed by an infinitive:
- agree: They agreed to meet at the café.
- decide: We decided to postpone the event.
- hope: I hope to see you soon.
- learn: He is learning to play the guitar.
- offer: She offered to help me with my project.
- plan: We are planning to visit Japan next spring.
- promise: You promised to call me yesterday.
- seem: It seems to be a good solution.
- want: I want to travel the world.
When Can I Use a Gerund Versus an Infinitive After a Verb Interchangeably?
This is where things get more advanced. Some verbs can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive. For one group, the meaning stays the same. For another, the meaning changes completely.
Verbs with Little or No Change in Meaning
With these verbs, you can use either form without a major difference in the core message. These verbs often express preferences or the beginning/end of an action.
- start: It started to rain. / It started raining.
- begin: The baby began to cry. / The baby began crying.
- continue: She continued to work despite the noise. / She continued working despite the noise.
- like: I like to read. / I like reading.
- love: We love to hike. / We love hiking.
- hate: He hates to be late. / He hates being late.
Verbs with a Significant Change in Meaning
This is a critical concept in advanced English. The choice between a gerund or an infinitive with these verbs completely alters the meaning of the sentence.
- Stop
- stop + gerund: to quit a habitual action.
- *Example*: He stopped smoking for his health. (He quit the habit of smoking.)
- stop + infinitive: to pause one action in order to do another.
- *Example*: He stopped to smoke on his way home. (He paused his journey in order to have a cigarette.)
- Remember
- remember + gerund: to recall a memory from the past.
- *Example*: I remember meeting her at the conference last year. (I have a memory of this past event.)
- remember + infinitive: to not forget to do a task or chore.
- *Example*: Please remember to lock the door when you leave. (Don't forget this future action.)
- Try
- try + gerund: to do something as an experiment to see what will happen.
- *Example*: If you can't sleep, try drinking some warm milk. (Experiment with this potential solution.)
- try + infinitive: to make an effort to do something difficult.
- *Example*: I tried to lift the box, but it was too heavy. (I made an effort.)
Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect
Ultimately, understanding when to use a gerund versus an infinitive after a verb comes down to recognizing the main verb and learning the patterns associated with it. By memorizing the lists of verbs that take a gerund or an infinitive and studying the specific cases where the meaning changes, you can eliminate a common source of errors. Consistent practice and exposure to these verb patterns in context are the keys to achieving fluency and confidence in your English communication.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gerunds and Infinitives
What is the main difference between a gerund and an infinitive?
A gerund is the '-ing' form of a verb that acts like a noun (e.g., *Swimming* is fun). An infinitive is the 'to + base verb' form, which can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb (e.g., I want *to swim*).
How can I remember which verbs take a gerund or an infinitive?
Unfortunately, there are no simple shortcuts. The best method is memorization through practice. Create flashcards with the verb on one side and its pattern (gerund or infinitive) with an example sentence on the other. Grouping verbs by meaning (e.g., verbs of preference, verbs of planning) can also help.
Is there a rule for using gerunds after prepositions?
Yes, and this rule is very consistent. A verb that immediately follows a preposition must always be in its gerund (-ing) form. For example: "I am interested *in learning* Spanish." or "Thank you *for helping* me."
Why does the meaning change with verbs like 'stop' and 'remember'?
The meaning changes because the grammar reflects a different concept. The gerund form often refers to a real, completed, or ongoing action or experience (remembering a past event). The infinitive form often points toward a potential or future action, a goal, or a purpose (stopping *in order to do* something).
Can a gerund be the subject of a sentence?
Absolutely. When a verb acts as the subject, it must be a gerund. For example, in the sentence "*Reading* is my favorite hobby," the word "Reading" is a gerund acting as the subject.