English Grammar Questions Long
In English grammar, gerunds and infinitives are verb forms that function as nouns. They are used to express actions or states of being in a non-finite way.
A gerund is a verb form that ends in -ing and functions as a noun. It is derived from a verb but acts as a noun in a sentence. Gerunds can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence.
Examples of gerunds:
1. Swimming is my favorite hobby. (subject)
2. I enjoy reading books. (object)
3. Her passion is dancing. (complement)
An infinitive, on the other hand, is the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." It can also function as a noun and is used to express purpose, intention, or result. Infinitives can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence.
Examples of infinitives:
1. To travel is my dream. (subject)
2. She wants to learn how to play the guitar. (object)
3. His goal is to become a doctor. (complement)
Both gerunds and infinitives can also be used after certain verbs or expressions. The choice between using a gerund or an infinitive depends on the verb that precedes it.
Examples of verbs followed by gerunds:
1. I enjoy swimming in the ocean.
2. They admitted to cheating on the test.
3. She avoids eating junk food.
Examples of verbs followed by infinitives:
1. He wants to go to the movies.
2. They decided to take a vacation.
3. She needs to finish her homework.
It is important to note that some verbs can be followed by both gerunds and infinitives, but with a change in meaning.
Examples:
1. I stopped smoking. (I quit the habit of smoking)
I stopped to smoke. (I paused what I was doing in order to smoke)
2. He remembered locking the door. (He recalls the action of locking the door)
He remembered to lock the door. (He didn't forget to lock the door)
In summary, gerunds and infinitives are verb forms that function as nouns in English grammar. Gerunds end in -ing and infinitives are the base form of a verb preceded by "to." They can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence, and their usage depends on the verb that precedes them.