What is the difference between a gerund and an infinitive?

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What is the difference between a gerund and an infinitive?

A gerund and an infinitive are both verb forms, but they have different functions and uses in a sentence.

A gerund is a verb form that functions as a noun. It is created by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb. Gerunds can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "Swimming is my favorite hobby," "swimming" is a gerund functioning as the subject of the sentence.

On the other hand, an infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." Infinitives can also function as nouns, but they can also function as adjectives or adverbs. Infinitives are often used after certain verbs, such as "want," "need," or "like." For example, in the sentence "I want to learn Spanish," "to learn" is an infinitive functioning as the object of the verb "want."

In summary, the main difference between a gerund and an infinitive is their form and their function in a sentence. Gerunds end in "-ing" and function as nouns, while infinitives are the base form of a verb preceded by "to" and can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.