Grammar: the Use of the Infinitive and the Gerund

WRITING: 

Write a list of words that make you happy, things like “singing a song”, “reading a book”, etc. Write as many things as possible.

GRAMMAR:

When to use the infinitive

The infinitive form is used after certain verbs:
- forget, help, learn, teach, train
- choose, expect, hope, need, offer, want, would like
- agree, encourage, pretend, promise, recommend
- allow, can/can't afford, decide, manage, mean, refuse

• I forgot to close the window.
• Mary needs to leave early.
• Why are they encouraged to learn English?
• We can't afford to take a long holiday.

The infinitive form is always used after adjectives, for example:
- disappointed, glad, happy, pleased, relieved, sad, surprised

• I was happy to help them.
• I am always willing to help  you.
• She will be delighted to see you.

This includes too + adjective:

• The water was too cold to swim in.
• Is your coffee too hot to drink?

The infinitive form is used after adjective + enough:

• He was strong enough to lift it.
• She is rich enough to buy two.

Some modal verbs also use to-infinitive:

• I have to clean up the bedroom.
• She doesn't need to watch tv.

Other modal verbs require a bare infinitive.

• I may (might) do that
• Would you tell me?
• He should have told you
• Peter can (could) pick you up

When to use -ing

The -ing form is used when the word is the subject of a sentence or clause:

• Swimming is good exercise.
• Doctors say that smoking is bad for you.

The -ing form is used after a preposition:

• I look forward to meeting you.
• They left without saying "Goodbye."

The -ing form is used after certain verbs:
- avoid, dislike, enjoy, finish, give up, mind/not mind, practise

• I dislike getting up early.
• Would you mind opening the window?

Let´s read more about the use of the Gerund and the Infinitive and practice a little bit by clicking here

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