Gerund vs. Infinitive | IELTS Grammar Exercises

Some words are followed by gerunds (ing forms) whereas others are followed by infinitives. Some words can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive. Sometimes there is a difference of meaning.

Gerunds and infinitives belong to a group of verbs called non-finites. They are not exactly verbs and they cannot make clauses.

Fill in the blanks using a gerund or infinitive.

1. We expect ………………………. the winter in India. (spend)

2. I am hoping ……………………….. an invitation to their party. (receive)

3. Don’t forget ………………………… me a call before you leave. (give)

4. She doesn’t seem ………………………….. you. (like)

5. I asked them ………………………….. a proper explanation. (give)

6. I enjoy ………………………… time with my kids. (spend)

7. She didn’t allow me …………………………. (go)

8. We can’t afford ………………………… any longer. (wait)

9. We were advised ………………………… early. (start)

10. She suggested …………………………. another attempt. (make)

11. I have finished ……………………….. the report. (draft)

12. He has given up ………………………… (smoke)

13. I have no desire ………………………. (change)

14. The mangoes are ripe enough …………………………… (pick)

15. The hall is spacious enough ………………………… all guests. (accommodate)

16. I will never forget ……………………….. the Lama. (meet)

17. They have forbidden ………………………… in this area. (park)

18. You have no right ………………………… me. (criticize)

19. I forgot ………………………. the bill. (pay)

20. I don’t mind ……………………… (wait)

Answers

1. to spend, 2. to receive, 3. to give, 4. to like, 5. to give, 6. spending, 7. to go, 8. to wait, 9. to start, 10. making, 11. drafting, 12. smoking, 13. to change, 14. to pick, 15. to accommodate, 16. meeting, 17. park, 18. to criticize, 19. to pay, 20. waiting