Gerund vs Infinitive 3vwo

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Gerund vs Infinitive 3vwo

3VWO

Which is correct?

A

I stopped to smoke.

B

I stopped smoking.

They both are!

Use the GERUND (-ing form) and the INFINITIVE (to + verb) for different reasons.

You will need to know when to use which!

Gerund (verb + -ing)

1. Definition: A gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun.

2. The Core Job: It names an activity, experience, or concept rather than showing an action in real-time.

3. Key Characteristic: Because it behaves like a noun, you can use it anywhere a normal noun fits (as a subject, object, or after prepositions).

4. Examples:

   • Subject: Swimming is great exercise. (Swimming = the activity)

   • Object: I enjoy reading. (Reading = the thing I enjoy)

   • After Preposition: She is good at painting. (Painting = the skill/activity)

Infinitive (to be + verb)

1. Definition: The infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by "to" (e.g., to go, to learn).

2. The Core Job: It expresses a purpose, goal, future action, or intention.

3. Key Characteristic: While it can act as a noun, it also acts like an adjective or adverb depending on the sentence structure.

4. Examples:

   • Showing Purpose: I called him to ask a question. (Why did I call? To ask.)

   • Goal/Intention: She wants to buy a new car. (Future target, not yet completed)

   • After Adjective: It is easy to learn. (Modifies the word 'easy')

How to use

1. After prepositions (voorzetsels) - always use the gerund

2. As the subject (onderwerp) of a sentence - always use the gerund

3. Take a look at the fixed verbs list to see when to use gerund vs. infinitive

Gerund words

Enjoy, avoid, finish, practice, keep, mind, suggest, miss, consider, risk

• Rule of Thumb: Focus on feelings, ongoing habits, or completed actions.

Infinitive words

Want, hope, decide, promise, offer, agree, plan, refuse, learn, expect

• Rule of Thumb: Focus on future plans, goals, or choices.

Difference

She is really good at ____ the guitar. (play)

We decided ____ at home because of the rain. (stay)

I'm looking forward to ___ you next week! (see)

____ a new language takes a lot of effort. (learn)

He promised ____ me as soon as he arrived. (call)

My sister always avoids ____ her chores. (do)

Are you interested in ____ our team? (join)

I forgot ____ milk, so I have to go back to the store. (buy)

They suggested ____ to the cinema today. (go)

It's not easy ____ this grammar topic. (understand)

To work:

Gerund vs infinitive 2.1, p.193 and do ex. 8, p. 61.

Reading 2.2: p.65, discuss vocab 2.2, then do ex. 13, 14, 15 (p. 56).