Gerund vs Infinitive Practice


Grammar


A gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding "-ing."

Infinitives are the "to" form of the verb.


It can be tricky to remember which verbs are followed by the infinitive (the to form) of the verb and which are followed by the gerund (the ing form) of the verb.

Try to remember that:

Gerunds are often used when actions are real, fixed, or completed. "I enjoy cooking."

Infinitives are often used when actions are unreal, abstract, or future: "He wants to swim."

Sometimes the use of a gerund or an infinitive can change the meaning of a sentence. Can you explain the difference between these two sentences? 


"I remembered to take my umbrella."
"I remembered taking my umbrella."

Here is a quick exercise so you can test your knowledge. In each sentence, choose either the gerund or infinitive. Then why don't you make your own sentences using the verbs below. I hope you find this useful - good luck!

Lesson by Caroline, English teacher at EC English. 

1. I often go (dance) ___ on a Saturday night.
To Dance
Dancing

2. When I finish (write) ___ this letter, I'll come and help you.
Writing
To write

3. I am planning (buy) ___ a new laptop soon.
To buy
buying

4. I need (sleep) ___ at least eight hours a night.
To sleep
Sleeping

5. I want (move) ___ to London next year.
Moving
To move

6. Would you consider (give) ___ the speech at our anniversary party?
Giving
To give

7. She avoids (walk) ___ in the rain.
Walking
To walk

8. Emily promised (eat) ___ all her vegetables.
Eating
To eat

9. I don't mind (call) ___ them if you don't want to.
To call
calling

10. You need to practise (listen) ___.
Listening
To listen

11. Did anyone volunteer (work) ___ on Saturday?
To work
Working

12. He refuses (talk) ___ to me.
Talking
To talk

13. I enjoy (watch) ___ romantic movies.
To watch
Watching

14. We can't afford (rent) ___ this flat anymore.
Renting
To rent

15. I managed (get) ___ there on time.
To get
Getting