Some verbs and adjectives can be followed by either an -ing form or an infinitive. In some cases, there is a difference of meanings. Some verbs and adjectives are usually followed by infinitives. There are also some verbs or adjectives that can only be followed by ing forms.
1. He insisted ……………… paid at once.
After a verb + preposition, we normally use the –ing form of the following verb.
2. I don’t like the idea ………………….. old.
After a noun + preposition, we usually use the –ing form of the following verb.
3. I am not very good …………………..
After an adjective + preposition, we usually use the –ing form of the following verb.
4. I was interested ……………………… that my ancestors were from Burma.
We use an infinitive after learn to talk about successfully learning something.
5. I don’t think they mean ………………….. for the moment.
When ‘mean’ means ‘intend’, it is followed by an infinitive.
6. If you want to pass the test that will mean …………………. hard.
When ‘mean’ means ‘involve’, it is followed by an –ing form.
7. I’m beginning ………………… things better.
Infinitives are preferred after continuous forms of begin and start.
8. I am not accustomed …………………. alone.
After ‘be accustomed to’, we can use an infinitive or an –ing form.
9. We are still waiting for them ……………..
Some verbs are followed by for + object + infinitive. Wait is one of them. An –ing form is not usually possible in these cases.
10. They are talking about ………………… to the country.
We use an –ing form after a preposition.
11. They repaired the roof instead ………………… on holiday.
12. I regret ……………….. my job. It was a big mistake.
We use an -ing form after regret to refer to the past.
Answers
1. He insisted on being paid at once.
2. I don’t like the idea of getting old.
3. I am not very good at dancing.
4. I was interested to learn that my ancestors were from Burma.
5. I don’t think they mean to get married for the moment.
6. If you want to pass the test that will mean working hard.
7. I’m beginning to understand things better.
8. I am not accustomed to live / to living alone.
9. We are still waiting for them to arrive.
10. They are talking about moving to the country.
11. They repaired the roof instead of going on holiday.
12. I regret quitting my job. It was a big mistake.
