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To Stroll vs Strolling Infinitives & Gerunds

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Infinitives: An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word "to" (e.g., to swim, to eat, to learn). It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence. Infinitives are often used to express intentions, purposes, desires, or potential actions. Gerunds: A gerund is the -ing form of a verb (e.g., swimming, eating, learning). It’s different from a “present participle” which functions as a verb tense. A gerund can be the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.

When and How to Use Each Expression?

Get a sense of when and how each expression can be used through the following examples!

To stroll (Infinitive)

Purpose or Intention: Use the infinitive "to stroll" when you want to express a purpose, intention, desire, or potential action

Example

I want to stroll in the park and enjoy the scenery.

Strolling (Gerund)

Activity or Experience: Use the gerund "strolling" when you want to refer to the activity itself or the experience as a noun.

Example

Strolling in the city streets is a great way to explore.

Where can infinitives/gerunds be placed in a sentence?

To stroll (Infinitive)

  • 1Subject

    To stroll is a great way to relax and clear your mind.

    To stroll is a great way to relax and clear your mind.

    • "*To stroll*" serves as the subject of the sentence.
    • Infinitive phrase (subject) + verb (is) + noun phrase (a great way to relax and clear your mind).
  • 2Object

    She wants me to stroll with her in the evening.

    She wants me to stroll with her in the evening.

    • "Me *to stroll* with her in the evening" is the object of the verb "wants."
    • Noun (She) + verb (wants) + noun phrase (me *to stroll* with her in the evening).
  • 3Adjective Modifier

    I need a peaceful place to stroll and unwind.

    I need a peaceful place to stroll and unwind.

    • "*To stroll* and unwind" modifies the noun "place."
    • Noun (I) + verb (need) + noun phrase (a peaceful place *to stroll* and unwind).

Strolling (Gerund)

  • 1Subject

    Strolling is a popular activity for tourists.

    Strolling is a popular activity for tourists.

    • "*Strolling*" is the subject of the sentence.
    • Gerund (subject) + verb (is) + noun phrase (a popular activity for tourists).
  • 2Object

    I enjoy strolling through the park on sunny days.

    I enjoy strolling through the park on sunny days.

    • "*Strolling* through the park" is the object of the verb "enjoy."
    • Noun (I) + verb (enjoy) + gerund (*strolling* through the park).
  • 3Object of Preposition

    She has a passion for strolling in new neighborhoods.

    She has a passion for strolling in new neighborhoods.

    • "For *strolling*" is the object of the preposition "for."
    • Noun phrase (She) + verb (has) + noun phrase (a passion for *strolling* in new neighborhoods).

Verbs Taking Infinitives/Gerunds as Objects

The following are verbs that can take only the base form of the verb (infinitive), only the -ing form (gerund), or both.

Verbs Taking Infinitives as Objects

Example

They plan to stroll along the beach at sunset.

I hope to stroll through the gardens this weekend.

He wants to stroll in the park with his dog.

We decided to stroll around the neighborhood after dinner.

They agreed to stroll hand in hand in the moonlight.

Verbs Taking Gerunds as Objects

Example

He enjoys strolling along the riverbank in the evenings.

They recommend strolling for relaxation and stress relief.

She dislikes the idea of strolling in crowded areas.

I avoid strolling in unsafe neighborhoods.

Can you imagine yourself strolling through ancient ruins?

Verbs Taking Both Infinitives and Gerunds as Objects

Example

They like to stroll in the park on weekends. They like strolling in the park on weekends.

She started to stroll regularly for exercise. She started strolling regularly for exercise.

We began to stroll around the city to discover new places. We began strolling around the city to discover new places.

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