What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gerund
Example
Swimming is my favorite hobby. [gerund: subject]
Example
I enjoy swimming in the ocean. [gerund: object]
Example
He was singing while cooking dinner. [gerund: present participle]
infinitive
Example
To swim in the ocean is my dream. [infinitive: subject]
Example
I want to swim in the ocean. [infinitive: object]
Example
He needs to finish cooking dinner. [infinitive: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infinitive is more commonly used than gerund in everyday language. Infinitive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gerund is less common and often used in more formal or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gerund and infinitive?
While gerund is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, infinitive is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
