A Simple Guide to English Gerunds and Infinitives

Gerunds and infinitives are two forms of verbs that play a crucial role in the English language. A gerund is formed by adding “-ing” to a verb, transforming it into a noun. For instance, “swimming” is a gerund derived from the verb “swim.” On the other hand, an infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by “to,” such as “to swim.” Both gerunds and infinitives can serve various functions within a sentence, including acting as subjects, objects, or complements.

Understanding the distinction between these two forms is essential for mastering English grammar. The choice between using a gerund or an infinitive can sometimes be subtle and depends on the context of the sentence. While both forms can often be used interchangeably, there are specific rules and nuances that dictate their usage.

For example, certain verbs are typically followed by gerunds, while others are followed by infinitives. This complexity can pose challenges for learners of English, but with practice and familiarity, one can navigate these grammatical waters with ease. Join an English Class at NLS Language School.

Summary

• Gerunds are verb forms ending in -ing that function as nouns
• Infinitives are the base form of a verb with the word “to” in front of it, and they can also function as nouns
• Gerunds and infinitives can be used as subjects or objects in a sentence
• They can also be used after prepositions, certain verbs, and adjectives
• When using gerunds and infinitives, it’s important to avoid common mistakes such as using the wrong form after certain verbs or prepositions

Identifying Gerunds and Infinitives in Sentences

Recognising gerunds and infinitives in sentences is a fundamental skill for anyone looking to improve their command of English. A gerund will always end in “-ing,” making it relatively straightforward to identify. For example, in the sentence “Running is my favourite hobby,” “running” serves as the subject and is clearly a gerund.

In contrast, infinitives can be slightly trickier to spot since they appear in their base form, often preceded by “to.” In the sentence “I want to learn,” “to learn” is the infinitive phrase acting as the object of the verb “want.” To effectively identify these forms, it is helpful to look for their roles within the sentence structure. Gerunds often function as nouns, while infinitives can serve as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. For instance, in “Her goal is to travel the world,” “to travel” acts as a complement to the subject “goal.” By honing your ability to distinguish between gerunds and infinitives, you will enhance your overall comprehension and fluency in English.

Using Gerunds as Subjects or Objects

Gerunds can function as both subjects and objects within sentences, providing flexibility in expression. When used as a subject, a gerund takes on the role of the main focus of the sentence. For example, in “Swimming is an excellent form of exercise,” “swimming” is the subject that initiates the action.

This construction allows for a smooth flow of ideas and can make sentences more engaging. As objects, gerunds can follow verbs and complete their meaning. For instance, in “I enjoy reading novels,” “reading” serves as the object of the verb “enjoy.” This usage highlights personal preferences or activities that one finds pleasurable.

By incorporating gerunds into your writing and speech, you can convey your thoughts more vividly and expressively.

Using Infinitives as Subjects or Objects

Infinitives also have the capacity to function as subjects or objects within sentences, albeit with different implications than gerunds. When an infinitive acts as a subject, it often conveys a sense of purpose or intention. For example, in “To learn a new language is challenging,” the infinitive phrase “to learn” serves as the subject of the sentence, emphasising the action itself.

As objects, infinitives can follow certain verbs to indicate desires or intentions. In the sentence “She hopes to travel next summer,” “to travel” acts as the object of the verb “hopes.” This construction allows speakers to articulate their aspirations or plans clearly. Understanding how to use infinitives effectively will enhance your ability to express complex ideas succinctly.

Using Gerunds and Infinitives after Prepositions

Both gerunds and infinitives can follow prepositions, but they do so in distinct ways. Generally, gerunds are used after prepositions because they function as nouns. For instance, in the phrase “I am interested in learning,” “learning” follows the preposition “in” and serves as the object of that preposition.

This structure is common in English and helps convey specific meanings related to interests or activities. Infinitives, however, do not typically follow prepositions directly. Instead, they often appear after verbs that are followed by prepositions.

For example, in “She is looking forward to meeting you,” “meeting” is a gerund following the preposition “to.” In contrast, if we were to use an infinitive, we would need to rephrase: “She wants to meet you.” Mastering these distinctions will significantly improve your grammatical accuracy.

Using Gerunds and Infinitives after Certain Verbs

Certain verbs are conventionally followed by either gerunds or infinitives, which can lead to confusion for learners of English. For instance, verbs like “enjoy,” “avoid,” and “consider” are typically followed by gerunds: “I enjoy swimming,” “She avoids eating junk food,” and “He considered moving to another city.” These constructions highlight actions or states that are ongoing or habitual. Conversely, some verbs are followed by infinitives, such as “decide,” “want,” and “hope.” For example, one might say, “I want to go for a walk,” or “She decided to study abroad.” Understanding which verbs pair with which forms is essential for constructing grammatically correct sentences and conveying your intended meaning accurately.

Using Gerunds and Infinitives after Adjectives

Gerunds and infinitives can also follow adjectives, but again, their usage depends on specific contexts. Certain adjectives are typically followed by gerunds when expressing feelings or attitudes towards actions. For instance, one might say, “I am excited about travelling,” where “travelling” follows the adjective “excited.” This structure allows speakers to express emotions related to activities.

In contrast, some adjectives are followed by infinitives to indicate intentions or obligations. For example, in the sentence “It is important to study regularly,” the infinitive phrase “to study” follows the adjective “important.” This construction emphasises necessity or significance. Recognising these patterns will enhance your ability to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively.

Using Gerunds and Infinitives to Express Purpose

Both gerunds and infinitives can be employed to express purpose in sentences, although they do so in slightly different ways. Infinitives are often used to indicate intention or aim directly: for example, in “I study hard to pass my exams,” the infinitive phrase “to pass” clarifies the purpose behind studying hard. This construction succinctly conveys motivation. Gerunds can also express purpose but do so more indirectly. For instance, in the sentence “I went to the gym for exercising,” the gerund “exercising” indicates what the speaker intended to do at the gym. While both forms serve similar functions in expressing purpose, infinitives tend to be more straightforward and direct in their implications.

Using Gerunds and Infinitives to Express Preference

When expressing preferences or choices, both gerunds and infinitives can be used effectively but with different nuances. Gerunds often convey a sense of enjoyment or habitual action: for example, one might say, “I prefer swimming over running.” Here, swimming is presented as a more enjoyable option compared to running. Infinitives can also express preference but tend to focus on intentions or desires: for instance, saying “I would prefer to swim rather than run” highlights a choice based on personal inclination rather than habitual action.

Understanding how to use both forms will allow you to articulate your preferences more clearly and accurately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Using Gerunds and Infinitives

Despite their importance in English grammar, learners often make common mistakes when using gerunds and infinitives. One frequent error involves confusing which form follows certain verbs; for example, saying “I enjoy to swim” instead of “I enjoy swimming.” Such mistakes can lead to misunderstandings and hinder effective communication. Another common pitfall is using gerunds after prepositions incorrectly; for instance, saying “I look forward to meet you” instead of “I look forward to meeting you.” Being aware of these common errors will help you refine your grammar skills and enhance your overall proficiency in English.

Practice Exercises for Using Gerunds and Infinitives

To solidify your understanding of gerunds and infinitives, engaging in practice exercises is essential. One effective exercise involves filling in blanks with either a gerund or an infinitive based on context: “I can’t stand ______ (wait) any longer” would require “waiting.” Another useful activity could involve rewriting sentences by changing gerunds into infinitives or vice versa while maintaining their original meaning. Additionally, consider creating sentences that incorporate both forms: “I love ______ (read) books because I want ______ (learn) new things.” Such exercises not only reinforce grammatical rules but also enhance your ability to use gerunds and infinitives fluidly in conversation and writing.

In conclusion, mastering gerunds and infinitives is vital for anyone looking to improve their English language skills. The NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo offers comprehensive English courses that delve into these grammatical concepts among many others. With expert instructors guiding you through practical exercises and real-life applications of language rules, you will gain confidence in your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills further, NLS provides an enriching environment for language learning that caters to all levels of proficiency.

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