To -ing or not to -ing that is the question.

Infinitives versus Gerunds 

 You should remember that in English the infinitive is preceded by “to”: “I just want to go home and go to sleep!” But English also frequently uses gerunds, which are formed by adding “--‐ing” to a verb: “running”, “smoking”, “studying”. Note that gerunds, although formed from verbs, and although they look identical to the present participle (“I am running”, for example), are used as nouns: “Running is good exercise.” English for some reason loves the gerund. Very often in English we use the gerund when other languages, like Portuguese, would use the infinitive. But then, sometimes we do use the infinitive. And occasionally either form is acceptable. Confusing? Yes, it can be. And unfortunately, some memorization is required to know when to use the infinitive and when to use the gerund. However, there are some guidelines – if not firm rules – which will help you to know whether to use the infinitive or the gerund in a given situation. Here are three guidelines which cover three common situations:

1. Verbs which describe feelings – whether someone likes or does not like something – are followed by a gerund. Examples:

 “I like swimming.” “I dislike swimming.” “I Hate studying grammar.” Common verbs in this category include: like, dislike, hate, enjoy, fear, interested in, detest, don’t mind, can’t stand, tolerate, and love, among others. Note that a few of these verbs – “like” and “love”, for example – may be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive. Most, however, can only be followed by a gerund. A native speaker of English would never say, for example, “I dislike to swim,” but always “I dislike swimming.” Why? I have no answer. However, use the gerund after this category of verbs and you will always be safe.

 2. Verbs which describe motion, whether stopping, starting, or a lack of motion, are usually followed by a gerund. Verbs in this category include: begin, complete, delay, finish, continue, stop, start, postpone, quit, resist, resume, stay, remain, and cease. Examples: “I didn’t begin studying until 10:00 PM.” “I have just finishing reading the assignment.” “The following students should remain standing…” English, however, is often capricious, and there are a few verbs in this category which are followed by infinitives, including: commence, proceed, leave, and wait. A few maybe followed by either a gerund or infinitive: begin, start, and continue. “Stop” is an interesting verb. It can be followed by a gerund or and infinitive – but the meaning will change. “I stopped smoking” indicates that I no longer smoke, whereas “I stopped to smoke” indicates that I stopped some other activity in order to have a cigarette. If you aren’t sure, use the gerund after verbs in this category and generally you’ll be correct.

 3. Verbs which communicate an intention to do something are generally followed by the infinitive. Verbs in this category include: attempt, arrange, be able, choose, consent, dare, decide, expect, hope, intend, mean, ought, plan, prefer, try, want, and wish. Examples: “I plan to visit the U.S. in December.” “I didn’t mean to hurt you.” “I wouldn’t dare to fly in an ultralight airplane.” These guidelines don’t cover all situations, but they cover some common ones. And if you already speak English at an intermediate to advanced level, I offer you an additional tip if you aren’t sure whether to use the infinitive or the gerund: Trust your ear. Say each aloud and use the one which sounds best to you.

© John Clites 2011 www.EnglishForBrazilians.com