Gerund vs. Infinitive

Attribute	Gerund	Infinitive
Form	Verb + -ing	to + base form of the verb
Function	Used as a noun	Used as a noun, adjective, or adverb
Subject	Can be the subject of a sentence	Cannot be the subject of a sentence
Object	Can be the object of a verb or preposition	Can be the object of a verb or preposition
Usage	Used after certain verbs and expressions	Used after certain verbs, expressions, and as a complement
Examples	I enjoy swimming.	I want to swim.

Introduction

When learning English, one encounters various verb forms that can be confusing at times. Two such forms are gerunds and infinitives. Both gerunds and infinitives are verb forms that can function as nouns in a sentence. However, they have distinct attributes and usage patterns that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of gerunds and infinitives, their differences, and provide examples to illustrate their usage.

Gerunds

A gerund is a verb form that ends in -ing and functions as a noun in a sentence. It is derived from a verb but acts as a noun, allowing it to take on various roles such as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence. Gerunds are often used to express actions or activities in a general sense.

For example:

• Running is good for your health. (Subject)
• I enjoyreading books. (Object)
• Her passion iswriting. (Complement)

Gerunds can also be used after prepositions, as they function as nouns. This usage is common in expressions and idiomatic phrases.

For example:

• I'm interestedin learning new languages.
• She is afraidof flying.
• He insistedon going to the party.

Infinitives

An infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." It can also function as a noun, just like a gerund. However, infinitives have a broader range of functions and can be used as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.

When used as a noun, infinitives often express purpose, intention, or result.

For example:

• I wantto learn Spanish. (Purpose)
• His goal isto become a doctor. (Intention)
• The first step isto admit your mistake. (Result)

Infinitives can also function as adjectives, modifying nouns in a sentence.

For example:

• She has a bookto read tonight. (Modifying "book")
• The decisionto postpone the meeting was wise. (Modifying "decision")

Furthermore, infinitives can act as adverbs, providing additional information about the verb in a sentence.

For example:

• He woke up earlyto catch the train. (Modifying "woke up")
• She studies hardto succeed. (Modifying "studies")

Usage Differences

While both gerunds and infinitives can function as nouns, they are not always interchangeable. The choice between using a gerund or an infinitive depends on the verb that precedes it, the meaning intended, and the structure of the sentence.

Some verbs are followed by gerunds, while others are followed by infinitives. These patterns are often fixed and need to be memorized. Here are some common examples:

• Verbs followed by gerunds: enjoy, dislike, finish, suggest, avoid, consider, admit, appreciate, imagine, etc.
• Verbs followed by infinitives: want, need, plan, decide, hope, promise, refuse, agree, manage, etc.

For example:

• I enjoyreading books. (Gerund)
• I wantto read a book. (Infinitive)
• She suggestedgoing to the movies. (Gerund)
• He decidedto go to the party. (Infinitive)

It is important to note that some verbs can be followed by both gerunds and infinitives, but with a change in meaning.

For example:

• I stoppedsmoking. (I quit the habit of smoking)
• I stoppedto smoke. (I paused what I was doing in order to smoke)

In addition to verb patterns, gerunds and infinitives can also be influenced by certain adjectives, nouns, or prepositions that require a specific form. Again, these patterns need to be learned and practiced to ensure correct usage.

Conclusion

Gerunds and infinitives are both verb forms that function as nouns in a sentence. While gerunds end in -ing and infinitives are preceded by "to," they have distinct attributes and usage patterns. Gerunds are often used to express actions or activities in a general sense, while infinitives have a broader range of functions and can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. The choice between using a gerund or an infinitive depends on the verb that precedes it, the intended meaning, and the structure of the sentence. By understanding the differences and practicing their usage, learners can effectively incorporate gerunds and infinitives into their English language skills.