INFINITIVES AND -ING FORMS

When one verb follows another, it may appear in the infinitive or -ing form. The form depends on the first verb, and the following structures are possible.

• Verb + (object +) infinitive with to. Most people want to live for a 100 years. Everyone wants the champion to win again.

        Other verbs include: allow (object + to), decide, hope, manage, promise, teach (object + to).

        We also use the infinitive with to with would + verb. I like to play tennis. I like playing tennis. I would like to play tennis.

• Verb + -ing. We prefer watching comedies. They enjoy playing tennis on Saturdays.

        Other verbs include: practise, recommend, suggest, understand.
        We also use the -ing form after a preposition: I´m going to give up learning Spanish. I´m good at making friends.

• Verb + infinitive with to or -ing: I like to travel. I like travelling.

        Other vebs include: advise, begin, continue, like, love, hate.