Gerunds and Infinitives - Introduction

The Infinitive

The infinitive is the ‘to’ form of the verb.

For example: to go, to see, to watch

The bare infinitive is the infinitive without to.

For example: go, see, watch

We use the infinitive:

1. After adjectives:

For example: I’m glad to meet you.

2. After certain verbs:

For example: I need to go.

The Gerund

The gerund is the verb + ing.

For example: going, seeing, watching.

We use the gerund:

1. As the subject of the sentence.

For example: Swimming is boring.

2. After many prepositions.

I had dinner before leaving the house.

3. After certain verbs

For example: I enjoy running.

Click on the links below to learn more about Gerunds and Infinitives

Verb + Infinitive or Gerund

Verb + Object + Infinitive

Verbs that can be followed by a Gerund or Infinitive