3 Ways to Use -ing and To Forms of Verbs
When it comes to using verbs, sometimes we find ourselves unsure whether to use the -ing form or the infinitive form (to base form of the verb). In this article, I will share my personal experience and provide you with three practical ways to determine when to use each form.
1. Denial or Confession?
One common instance where we are faced with this decision is when denying or confessing to an action. For example, ″They denied stealing the money.″ In this case, we use the verb in its -ing form because it indicates the action that was performed.
2. Expressing Enjoyment
When talking about things we enjoy or don’t enjoy, we typically use the -ing form. For instance, ″I don’t enjoy driving very much.″ Here, driving is the action itself and not a specific goal or purpose.
3. Ability or Affordability
When talking about our capabilities or affordability, we use the infinitive form (to base form). For example, ″I can’t afford to go out tonight. I haven’t got enough money.″ In this case, going out is the goal or purpose, not the action itself.
Now, let’s go through a few more examples to solidify our understanding⁚
- 4. ″Has it stopped raining yet?″ ‒ Here, raining is the action that has ceased.
- 5; ″Can you remind me to buy some coffee when we go out?″ ー Here٫ buying is the action we need to remember and do later.
- 6. ″Please stop asking me questions!″ ー In this case, asking is the action that needs to stop.
- 7. ″I refuse to answer any more questions.″ ー Answer is the action that we refuse to do.
- 8. ″One of the boys admitted to breaking the window.″ ‒ Breaking is the action that one of the boys confessed to.
By understanding these three ways, you can confidently choose whether to use the -ing form or the infinitive form in various situations. Remember to consider the purpose of the action and its function within the sentence. Practice using both forms in different contexts to enhance your language skills.