Today we have got a gerund vs infinitive guide because most of us often get confused on this topic. Therefore, We are back with some more exciting things and concepts related to Gerunds. Gerunds and infinitives are both important in English grammar. If you get a grip on both and understand the basic difference between the two then you can easily gain a command on the English Language.
You might be thinking that we have been giving so much importance to grammar since our very first blog. This is because without the use of grammar your sentences would not make sense to the other person. They will not understand what you want to express. The tenses help us to know when a particular activity occurred or when will it happen. Hence grammar makes sure that you do not make any mistake while conveying your message to others.
The Difference between Gerunds and Infinitive Verbs
Now, let’s begin our session with by getting to know the difference between Gerunds and Infinitive.
Can any tell what is the basic difference between a gerund and an infinitive?
Once you know the difference between the two you will be able to save yourself from making blunders while writing something important or speaking.
Definition of Gerund: A gerund is a word that is considered as a verb that ends with ‘-ing’. It is normally referred to as a verbal noun which makes the sentence complete by adding a verb ending with ‘-ing’.
Definition Of Infinitive: Basically, infinitives are words that are formed with a different word in front of a verb.
The similarity between gerunds and infinitives is that they can be both used as a subject and object in English sentences.
Now, that you have already known about the similarity in gerunds and infinities, its time t move ahead with noting its difference and how they can be used in various sentences.
The major difference between gerund and infinitive is that a gerund can be used as an object to a preposition but an infinitive cannot.
Example Words for Gerund & Infinitive
Let’s see what are some of the examples of gerunds
Gerunds are generally formed with the letters ending with “-ing”. For example:
• Thinking
• Acting
• Walking
• Talking
• Fishing
• Caring
• Writing
• Listening
Now lets, learn some examples of infinitives
Generally, infinitives are prefaced with the word “to”. For example:
• To think
• To act
• To walk
• To talk
• To fish
• To care
• To write
• To listen
Application and Usage of Gerunds and Infinitives
With the first glance, you won’t see any difference and you might also find it difficult to identify the difference between the two. You would also face problem while choosing between a gerund and an infinitive. But do not worry at all we have set a few examples through which you can easily understand how and when to these both words.
Examples of Gerund
- You must stop worrying about the future.
- You will really enjoy climbing mountains.
Some examples of Infinitives
Infinitives are mostly used when any action is abstract and might occur in the future.
I’d like you to think about your future plans.
Can you take a walk without you stopping to eat?
Conclusion
With this, we hope you know how to deal with words that might appear similar to you but are significantly different from each other in their application. EnlgishBix will always be there for your help. Stay tuned for more updates.
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