1. Overview:
A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that acts like a noun. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually with "to" in front of it. Both gerunds and infinitives can follow certain verbs like want, need, plan, decide, enjoy, hate, like, and love.
2. Cases of Usage:
Case 1: Use a gerund after verbs like enjoy, hate, and like.
Example: I enjoy reading books.
Case 2: Use an infinitive after verbs like want, need, plan, and decide.
Example: I want to go to the movies.
Case 3: Some verbs can use both forms but can change the meaning. For example, "like" can be followed by either.
Example: I like swimming. (I enjoy it.)
Example: I like to swim in the morning. (I prefer to swim in the morning.)
3. Exceptions or Things to Pay Attention To:
Some verbs only take one form. For instance, "enjoy" always takes a gerund.
Example: She enjoys dancing. (Not "to dance.")
4. Additional Notes:
Remember that gerunds are often used for activities or hobbies, while infinitives are used for goals or intentions. A common mistake is using the wrong form after these verbs, so pay attention to which form is correct for each verb.
