Introduction

Some verbs can only be followed by "to" + verb.

Other verbs must be followed by a gerund ("-ing").

And some verbs can be followed by both verb forms.

Examples

• I would like to go shopping.
• She enjoys going to the cinema.
• I prefer reading/to read.

Examples of verbs which must be followed by "to" + verb:

• would like
• want
• need
• forget
• promise

Examples of verbs which must be followed by a gerund ("–ing"):

• enjoy
• mind
• finish
• suggest

Examples of verbs which can be followed by either form:

• like
• love
• hate
• prefer
• continue

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Practice

Choose the correct answer a, b, c or d:

• Susan loves horses. (ride)
   
• My father needs to the hospital. (go)
   
• I don't mind . (wash up)
   
• Don't forget the bathroom. (clean)
   

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Further practice

Complete the sentences with the correct answer from a, b, c or d:

• We really enjoyed ____ the city last weekend.


to visit visit visiting visited



• Julie doesn't mind ____ extra hours.


work working to work worked



• My brother hates ____ for a walk.


going go have gone went



• I promise ____ the report tomorrow.


finish finishing finished to finish



• Would you like ____ my umbrella.


borrow to borrow borrowing borrowed



• They want ____ the highest mountain.


climbing climb climbed to climb

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