Gerunds and Infinitives

Understanding gerunds and infinitives is essential for mastering English grammar. Both forms can function as nouns in a sentence, but they follow different rules and usages. In this guide, we’ll explore what gerunds and infinitives are, how they are used, when to use each form, and provide examples and exercises.

What are Gerunds?

Gerunds are the -ing forms of verbs that function as nouns. They can act as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence.

How are Gerunds Used?

1.As the Subject of a Sentence:

• Example: “Swimming is good exercise.”

2. As the Object of a Sentence:

• Example: “She enjoys reading books.”

3. After Prepositions:

• Example: “He is good at painting.”

4. After Certain Verbs:

• Example: “They avoid eating junk food.”

What are Infinitives?

Infinitives are the base forms of verbs preceded by “to.” They can also function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.

How are Infinitives Used?

1.As the Subject of a Sentence:

• Example: “To learn is important.”

2.As the Object of a Sentence:

• Example: “She wants to travel the world.”

3.To Express Purpose:

• Example: “He studies hard to get good grades.”

4.After Certain Verbs:

• Example: “They decided to go to the beach.”

When to Use Gerunds vs. Infinitives

Gerunds

• After Prepositions: “I’m interested in learning French.”
• After Certain Verbs: “She enjoys dancing.”

Infinitives

• After Adjectives: “It’s important to drink water.”
• To Express Purpose: “He went to the store to buy milk.”

Examples of Gerunds vs. Infinitives

1.Gerund: “She loves running in the park.”
Infinitive: “She loves to run in the park.”

2. Gerund: “They are considering moving to a new city.”
Infinitive: “They plan to move to a new city.”

3. Gerund: “Reading books is her favorite hobby.”
Infinitive: “To read books is her favorite hobby.”

4. Gerund: “He avoids eating spicy food.”
Infinitive: “He refuses to eat spicy food.”

5. Gerund: “Teaching is a rewarding profession.”
Infinitive: “To teach is a rewarding profession.”

List of Common Gerunds and Infinitives in English

Gerunds (verb + -ing)

1. Eating
2. Running
3. Swimming
4. Reading
5. Writing
6. Dancing
7. Singing
8. Cooking
9. Talking
10. Listening
11. Playing
12. Shopping
13. Traveling
14. Working
15. Driving
16. Walking
17. Watching
18. Learning
19. Teaching
20. Drawing

Infinitives (to + base form of verb)

1. To eat
2. To run
3. To swim
4. To read
5. To write
6. To dance
7. To sing
8. To cook
9. To talk
10. To listen
11. To play
12. To shop
13. To travel
14. To work
15. To drive
16. To walk
17. To watch
18. To learn
19. To teach
20. To draw

Gerunds and Infinitives Exercises

1. She enjoys ________ (swim) in the ocean.
2. He decided ________ (take) a break.
3. They are good at ________ (play) chess.
4. She wants ________ (learn) Spanish.
5. He is afraid of ________ (fly).
6. We hope ________ (visit) Paris next year
7. .________ (exercise) regularly is important.
8. She avoids ________ (eat) late at night.
9. It’s easy ________ (get) lost in this city.
10. They plan on ________ (start) a new business.

Answers:

1. swimming
2. to take
3. playing
4. to learn
5. flying
6. to visit
7. Exercising
8. eating
9. to get
10. starting

By understanding when to use gerunds and infinitives, you can enhance your English grammar skills and communicate more effectively. Use this guide to master the usage of gerunds and infinitives in your sentences!