Gerunds and infinitives: a nuisance!

Question

Well, hello! I'm a newbie

Well, I have a question on this: If a verb can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive but the meanings are alot different, how can we manage them? Cna you show me some examples or some tips for this? I'm really mad with tis exercise in front of me!
OK, like: when am I be supposed to use 'regret doing something' when 'regret to do something'. or remember, forget...
Help me please. Thanks!

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

Some verbs accept either form with the same meaning: 'I like skiiing / I like to skii'.
Some verbs accept both forms but carrying different meanings: 'I forgot meeting him'; 'I forgot to meet him'.
Some verbs only accept one form, and not the other: 'I enjoy skiing'; 'I want to ski'.
Somve verbs accept neither: X 'I become skiiing/to ski'.

Many grammar books include a list of the most common verbs in each class. Here's one [url="http://webster.commnet.edu/grammar/verblist.htm"]VERB LIST[/url].

Maxpayne_lhp · Answer

Oh, Ok, thanks. I think the only things ta do are learn by heart and do more exercises! Thanks alot!

Guest · Answer

Hi

Which one is right then:

I have written to you to request...
I have written to you requesting...

And why?

Thanks

Mister Micawber · Answer

Both are 'right' in appropriate circumstances, but in this case I would opt for the first. (I am not satisfied that it represents an infinitive as adverbial of 'write', but think rather that it is the object of the abbreviated phrasal preposition: 'in order to request'). It indicates purpose-- which is the presumed meaning of the communication.

The second merely indicates the content of the letter, and as such is a bit rude in a letter of supplication. As a follow-up letter to a subordinate it would serve better, as admonishment.

Gerunds and infinitives: a nuisance!

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