Gerund vs Infinitive Practice

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A gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding "-ing."

Infinitives are the "to" form of the verb.

It can be tricky to remember which verbs are followed by the infinitive (the to form) of the verb and which are followed by the gerund (the ing form) of the verb.

Try to remember that:

Gerunds are often used when actions are real, fixed, or completed. "I enjoy cooking."

Infinitives are often used when actions are unreal, abstract, or future: "He wants to swim."

Sometimes the use of a gerund or an infinitive can change the meaning of a sentence. Can you explain the difference between these two sentences? Leave your answer in the comments area.

"I remembered to take my umbrella."
"I remembered taking my umbrella."

Here is a quick exercise so you can test your knowledge. In each sentence, choose either the gerund or infinitive. Then why don't you make your own sentences using the verbs below. I hope you find this useful - good luck!

Lesson by Caroline, English teacher at EC English. 

• 1. I often go (dance) ___ on a Saturday night.
  
  Dancing
  To Dance
  
  
• 2. When I finish (write) ___ this letter, I'll come and help you.
  
  Writing
  To write
  
  
• 3. I am planning (buy) ___ a new laptop soon.
  
  buying
  To buy
  
  
• 4. I need (sleep) ___ at least eight hours a night.
  
  Sleeping
  To sleep
  
  
• 5. I want (move) ___ to London next year.
  
  Moving
  To move
  
  
• 6. Would you consider (give) ___ the speech at our anniversary party?
  
  To give
  Giving
  
  
• 7. She avoids (walk) ___ in the rain.
  
  Walking
  To walk
  
  
• 8. Emily promised (eat) ___ all her vegetables.
  
  Eating
  To eat
  
  
• 9. I don't mind (call) ___ them if you don't want to.
  
  To call
  calling
  
  
• 10. You need to practise (listen) ___.
  
  Listening
  To listen
  
  
• 11. Did anyone volunteer (work) ___ on Saturday?
  
  Working
  To work
  
  
• 12. He refuses (talk) ___ to me.
  
  To talk
  Talking
  
  
• 13. I enjoy (watch) ___ romantic movies.
  
  To watch
  Watching
  
  
• 14. We can't afford (rent) ___ this flat anymore.
  
  Renting
  To rent
  
  
• 15. I managed (get) ___ there on time.
  
  Getting
  To get