What is the Difference Between Gerund and Infinitive?

The main difference between gerunds and infinitives lies in their form and function within a sentence:

Gerunds:

• End in "-ing" (e.g., walking, traveling, voting).
• Function as a noun.
• Can be the subject or object of a verb.
• Always use a singular verb form when functioning as the subject of a sentence.

Infinitives:

• Are the base form of a verb preceded by "to" (e.g., to walk, to travel, to vote).
• Function as a verb.
• Can be used as the main verb in a sentence.

Both gerunds and infinitives can be used after certain verbs or adjectives, but some verbs are followed only by a gerund, while others are followed only by an infinitive. Here are some examples:

• Verbs of preference and choice can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive, depending on the meaning you want to express.
• Verbs of perception and emotion are usually followed by an infinitive (e.g., "I heard her sing" and "I saw him run").

In summary, gerunds are verb forms that end in "-ing" and function as nouns, while infinitives are the base form of a verb preceded by "to" and function as verbs.

Comparative Table: Gerund vs Infinitive

Here is a table comparing the differences between gerunds and infinitives:

Gerunds and infinitives are both types of non-finite verbs that can be used in sentences. Gerunds are used for actions that are actual or complete, while infinitives can be used for actions that are not actual or that can happen.