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

FormWhen to UseExamples
Gerund (-ing)After certain verbs, as subject, after prepositions
  • I enjoy swimming.
  • Swimming is fun.
  • I'm interested in learning.
Infinitive (to + verb)After certain verbs, to express purpose, after adjectives
  • I want to swim.
  • I swim to stay fit.
  • It's easy to learn.

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

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