Lesson: Infinitive or -ING

Infinitive or -ing?

Sometimes we need to decide whether to use a verb in its:

   -ing form (doing, singing)

   or

   infinitive form (to do, to sing).

For example, only one of the following sentences is correct. Which one?

   I dislike working late. (???)
   I dislike to work late. (???)

When to use the infinitive

The infinitive form is used after certain verbs: - forget, help, learn, teach, train - choose, expect, hope, need, offer, want, would like - agree, encourage, pretend, promise - allow, can/can't afford, decide, manage, mean, refuse

   I forgot to close the window.
   Mary needs to leave early.
   Why are they encouraged to learn English?
   We can't afford to take a long holiday.

The infinitive form is always used after adjectives, for example: - disappointed, glad, happy, pleased, relieved, sad, surprised

   I was happy to help them.
   She will be delighted to see you.

This includes too + adjective:

   The water was too cold to swim in.
   Is your coffee too hot to drink?

The infinitive form is used after adjective + enough:

   He was strong enough to lift it.
   She is rich enough to buy two.

When to use -ing

The -ing form is used when the word is the subject of a sentence or clause:

   Swimming is good exercise.
   Doctors say that smoking is bad for you.

The -ing form is used after a preposition:

   I look forward to meeting you.
   They left without saying "Goodbye."

The -ing form is used after certain verbs: - avoid, dislike, enjoy, finish, give up, mind/not mind, practise

   I dislike getting up early.
   Would you mind opening the window?

Some verbs can be followed by the -ing form or the infinitive without a big change in meaning: begin, continue, hate, intend, like, love, prefer, propose, start.

   It started to rain.
   It started raining.
   I like to play tennis.
   I like playing tennis.