Gerund vs. Infinitive
Gerunds and infinitives can both follow verbs, but the allowed pattern depends on the governing verb and sometimes changes the meaning. This guide treats the choice as a verb-pattern question, not a universal substitution rule.
Use the complement pattern licensed by the verb: some verbs take -ing, some take a to-infinitive, and some allow both with little or substantial meaning change.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Choice | Use it when | Example |
|---|---|---|
| -ing | the governing verb licenses an -ing complement | She enjoys cooking. |
| to-infinitive | the governing verb licenses a to-infinitive | They decided to leave. |
| either form | the verb licenses both; check whether meaning changes | She stopped talking / She stopped to talk. |
Further guidance
Meaning Boundary
Some verbs allow both patterns but the choice can shift emphasis or meaning, as with remember, stop, mean, and try.
Pattern Boundary
Different verbs license different complements; memorize or verify the governing verb pattern rather than swapping forms mechanically.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Verb patterns: verb + infinitive or verb + -ing? (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Verb-complement patterns, including verbs taking -ing, to-infinitive, or both with meaning differences