Gerunds & infinitives
enjoy doing vs decide to do, which verb takes which.
The rules
- "Enjoy" always takes -ing: "enjoy listening".
- "Decide" takes the infinitive: "decided to train".
- "Consider" + -ing: "consider working".
- "Stop + -ing" = quit the activity. "Stop to smoke" = pause in order to smoke!
- "Forget to do" = fail to do a task. "Forget doing" = not remember a past event.
- "Avoid" + -ing: "avoid driving".
- A gerund can be the subject of a sentence: "Swimming is…".
Examples
- I enjoy listening to podcasts on my commute.
- She decided to train for the marathon.
- Would you consider working abroad for a year?
- I stopped smoking last year.
- Don't forget to lock the door when you leave.
- I avoid driving at rush hour.
- Swimming is my favourite way to relax.
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.I enjoy _____ podcasts on my commute.
2.She decided _____ for the marathon.
3.Would you consider _____ abroad for a year?
4.Which sentence is correct?
5.Don't forget _____ the door when you leave.