B1-B2
Gerund vs Infinitive
Master when to use -ing forms vs to + verb
Key Differences
🇬🇧 English
Gerund: Verb + -ing (used as a noun)
Infinitive: to + base verb
🇫🇷 Français
Gérondif: Verbe + -ing (utilisé comme nom)
Infinitif: to + verbe de base
Basic Usage
| Form | When to Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Gerund (-ing) | After certain verbs, as subject, after prepositions |
|
| Infinitive (to + verb) | After certain verbs, to express purpose, after adjectives |
|
Verb Patterns
Verbs + Gerund
enjoyfinishstopsuggestavoidmindconsider
Example: I enjoy reading books.
Verbs + Infinitive
wantneeddecideplanhopeexpectpromise
Example: I want to read this book.
Verbs + Both
likelovehatepreferstartbegincontinue
Example: I like reading / I like to read.
Common Mistakes
I want going home.
I want to go home.
'Want' is followed by infinitive, not gerund
I enjoy to dance.
I enjoy dancing.
'Enjoy' is followed by gerund, not infinitive
I decided buying a car.
I decided to buy a car.
'Decide' is followed by infinitive
