Gerunds and infinitives
Enjoy doing or want to do? Learn the patterns that trip up even strong speakers.
Why it matters
Verb patterns appear in nearly every Speaking answer ('I enjoy reading', 'I'd like to travel'). Mistakes here are frequent and noticeable, and they pull down accuracy across both Speaking and Writing.
The rules
Verb + -ing: enjoy, avoid, consider, suggest, mind, finish, risk, admit.
I avoid eating late.
Verb + to-infinitive: want, decide, hope, plan, refuse, afford, aim, tend.
Many families can't afford to buy a house.
Prepositions are always followed by -ing.
She's interested in studying law. Instead of driving…
Some verbs change meaning: stop, remember, try.
I stopped smoking (quit). I stopped to smoke (paused in order to).
Model sentences
- I'm considering applying for a scholarship abroad.
- Governments should aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- I'm looking forward to starting my new job.
Common mistakes
Incorrect: I enjoy to cook.
Correct: I enjoy cooking.
'Enjoy' + -ing.
Incorrect: I look forward to hear from you.
Correct: I look forward to hearing from you.
'To' here is a preposition.
Incorrect: He suggested me to go.
Correct: He suggested that I go / suggested going.
'Suggest' doesn't take object + infinitive.
Band tip
Check yourself
I'm thinking about ___ (move) to Canada.
moving
She refused ___ (answer) the question.
to answer
Please remember ___ (lock) the door when you leave.
to lock