English Gerund vs Infinitive

In English grammar, whether you use a gerund (the -ing form of a verb, like 'running') or an infinitive (the base form preceded by 'to', like 'to run') after another verb depends on specific rules. Some verbs are followed exclusively by the gerund. These include verbs like 'enjoy', 'avoid', 'suggest', 'mind', and 'finish'. For example, we say 'I enjoy reading,' not 'I enjoy to read.' The gerund is also used after prepositions (e.g., 'interested in buying').

On the other hand, many verbs are followed exclusively by the infinitive. Common examples are 'want', 'hope', 'decide', 'agree', and 'promise' (e.g., 'I decided to go'). Some verbs can be followed by either form with no change in meaning, while others, like 'stop', 'remember', and 'forget', change their meaning depending on the choice. For instance, 'stop smoking' means to quit the habit, while 'stop to smoke' means to pause an activity in order to have a cigarette. Memorizing these verb patterns is key to fluent writing and speaking.