Grammar Structures

Verb + Gerund or Infinitive

Function

Some verbs are followed by an infinitive (to + verb), while others are followed by a gerund (verb + -ing). Some verbs — like love, like, hate, and prefer — can be followed by either with no change in meaning.

Love, Like, Hate, Prefer + infinitive or -ing

These verbs can be followed by either the infinitive or the gerund. Both are correct.

I hate eating alone. = I hate to eat alone.

We prefer to shop online. = We prefer shopping online.

She likes eating out with friends. = She likes to eat out with friends.

Would prefer + infinitive

Would prefer is always followed by the infinitive (to + verb), not the gerund.

I'd prefer to travel by plane.

She'd prefer to do it herself.

Would like + infinitive

Would like is always followed by the infinitive (to + verb), not the gerund.

He'd like to see her again.

I'd like to thank you for your help.

We'd like to stay a little longer.

Would rather + base verb

Would rather is followed by the base verb (no to, no -ing).

I'd rather see an action film.

They'd rather know the truth.

⚠ Common mistakes:
✗ I'd like going to the cinema. → ✓ I'd like to go to the cinema. (would like + infinitive)
✗ She'd prefer staying home. → ✓ She'd prefer to stay home. (would prefer + infinitive)
✗ I'd rather to watch TV. → ✓ I'd rather watch TV. (would rather + base verb, no to)

Match the Sentence Halves

Match each sentence beginning on the left with its correct ending on the right.

Matched 0 / 5

Fill in the Gaps

Complete each sentence with the correct form of the verb in brackets.

Find the Mistake

One sentence, four underlined parts. Click the lettered part that contains the error — it is not always in the grammar of this lesson, so read the whole sentence.

Put the Words in Order

Click the words to build the correct sentence. Click a placed word to remove it.

Answer the Questions

Write your own sentences using the structures from this topic. Then click "Show Model Answer" to compare.