Gerund vs. Infinitive Verb

Attribute	Gerund	Infinitive Verb
Form	Verb + -ing (e.g. swimming)	to + base form of verb (e.g. to swim)
Usage	Used as a noun (subject, object, complement)	Used as a noun, adjective, or adverb
Subject	Running is good exercise.	To run is good exercise.
Object	I enjoy swimming.	I like to swim.
After certain verbs	I avoid eating meat.	I want to eat pizza.

Introduction

Gerunds and infinitive verbs are two common verb forms in English that can be used in a variety of ways. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are key differences between the two that can affect how they are used in sentences. In this article, we will explore the attributes of gerunds and infinitive verbs and compare their usage in different contexts.

Definition and Formation

A gerund is a verb form that functions as a noun in a sentence. It is formed by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb. For example, in the sentence "Swimming is my favorite hobby," "swimming" is a gerund. Infinitive verbs, on the other hand, are the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." For example, in the sentence "I like to swim," "to swim" is an infinitive verb.

Usage as Subjects

Gerunds can be used as subjects in a sentence, just like nouns. For example, "Reading books is enjoyable." In this sentence, "reading books" is the subject of the sentence. Infinitive verbs can also be used as subjects, as in the sentence "To travel is my dream." In this case, "to travel" serves as the subject of the sentence.

Usage as Objects

Gerunds can also be used as objects of verbs or prepositions. For example, "I enjoy swimming." In this sentence, "swimming" is the object of the verb "enjoy." Infinitive verbs can also be used as objects, as in the sentence "She wants to eat." Here, "to eat" is the object of the verb "wants."

Usage with Modals

Gerunds are often used with modal verbs to express possibility, necessity, or permission. For example, "You should be studying for your exam." In this sentence, "studying" is a gerund used with the modal verb "should." Infinitive verbs can also be used with modal verbs, as in the sentence "I can swim." Here, "swim" is an infinitive verb used with the modal verb "can."

Usage with Certain Verbs

Some verbs are followed by gerunds, while others are followed by infinitive verbs. For example, "I enjoy cooking." In this sentence, "cooking" is a gerund following the verb "enjoy." On the other hand, some verbs are followed by infinitive verbs, such as "I want to eat." Here, "to eat" is an infinitive verb following the verb "want."

Usage in Passive Constructions

Gerunds can be used in passive constructions to emphasize the action rather than the doer of the action. For example, "Swimming is prohibited in this pool." In this sentence, "swimming" is a gerund used in a passive construction. Infinitive verbs can also be used in passive constructions, as in the sentence "To be loved is a wonderful feeling." Here, "to be loved" is an infinitive verb used in a passive construction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gerunds and infinitive verbs are both important verb forms in English that can be used in a variety of ways. While gerunds function as nouns and are formed by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb, infinitive verbs are the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." Both gerunds and infinitive verbs can be used as subjects, objects, with modals, and in passive constructions, but they are often used with different verbs. Understanding the differences between gerunds and infinitive verbs can help you use them correctly in your writing and speaking.