Forget+ infinitives vs forget+ gerunds

Question

Hi, guys.I've just met this crazy stuff:What is the difference between "forget to V" and "forget V-ing"? I"ve searched many websites but nothing satisfies me.Can u tell me the best? looking forward to your answers.

AlpheccaStars · Accepted Answer

Tu?n Anh Nguy?n 1356What is the difference between "forget to V" and "forget V-ing"?

They have two different meanings.

1. I forgot to lock the door.

The door is unlocked. I did not lock it. I was in a hurry to leave this morning and just closed it. I must go home, because it is not safe to leave the house unlocked.

2. I forgot locking the door.

I thought I did not lock the door. So I ran back home to lock it. When I got home, the door was locked. I must have locked it, but I don't remember doing that.

CalifJim · Answer

Tu?n Anh Nguy?n 1356What is the difference between "forget to V" and "forget V-ing"?

Yes. That's pretty crazy stuff, all right.

1. To forget to do something. You intended to do it, but you forgot, so you didn't do it. I forgot to mail this letter. It's still on my desk.

2. To forget doing something. (Usually negative: Never to forget doing something.) You did something, and it made a big impression on you, so you will never forget it. I'll never forget strolling around Seville one May morning last year.

3. To forget doing something. (Often imperative.) Not bothering to do something regarded as futile. — I think we should spend our next vacation in Colorado. — You can forget dreaming about that. It's too far to drive, and we can't afford the plane fare.

4. To forget doing something. (Affirmative) You did something, but you can't remember that you did it. I've got a glass of orange juice in my hand, which is strange. It seems I forgot getting myself a glass of orange juice from the refrigerator.

Personally, I use only the first three above, not the last one. For the last one, I say I don't remember getting myself a glass of orange juice.

CJ

Forget+ infinitives vs forget+ gerunds

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