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Introduction

Verb + verb​

Infinitive structures can be used after many verbs; structures with -ing forms can be used after many others.

  • I want to stop now. (not I want stopping now.)
  • We enjoyed visiting Edinburgh. (not We enjoyed to visit Edinburgh.)

Some verbs can also be followed by object + infinitive or object + -ing form.

  • I expected him to say something.
  • Jack didn’t hear me calling him.

After some verbs, more than one of these structures is possible, sometimes with a difference of meaning.

  • I don’t remember seeing her before.
  • Remember to buy coffee.

After some verbs (e.g. get, have, hear), structures with past participles and passive meanings are also possible.

  • We had our car broken into.
  • I’ve just seen a man arrested.

Structures after nouns, adjectives and prepositions​

Many nouns and adjectives can also be followed by structures with infinitives, and many by preposition + -ing.

  • the need to invest
  • an excuse for leaving
  • happy to see you
  • worried about getting old

Unfortunately, there is no good way of knowing which verbs, nouns and adjectives are followed by which kind of structure. The more important cases are dealt with in this Section; if in doubt, check in a good dictionary.

Note that prepositions are always followed by -ing forms.

  • She left without saying goodbye. (not … without to say goodbye.)
Do you know what’s wrong with these, and why?

I enjoy to sail. (see here)

We don’t expect that you stay. (see here)

I suggested her to go home. (see here)

He’s finished to repair the car. (see here)

Cricket is not very interesting to watch it. (see here)

Iron is easy to rust. (see here)

The thought to fail never entered his head. (see here)

Always check the oil before to start the car. (see here)

I look forward to hear from you. (see here)

I forgot buying the soap. (see here)

I wouldn’t advise to take the car. (see here)

I slowly began understanding how she felt. (see here)

Responsible managers never stop to question their decisions. (see here)

Susan was nowhere to find. (see here)

I made her crying. (see here)

I can’t make work the washing machine. (see here)

I can make myself understand in Japanese. (see here)

The rain made wet the grass. (see here)

You have made me be a happy man. (see here)

I must have repaired my watch. (see here)

I saw Emily’s crossing the road. (see here)