Summary Comparison: Verbs That Take Both Gerund and Infinitive Without Changing the Meaning

In English, some verbs can be followed by either a gerund (the "-ing" form) or an infinitive (the "to" form) without causing any change in the meaning of the sentence. These verbs can express the same action or intent regardless of whether they are followed by the gerund or the infinitive. Understanding these verbs helps avoid confusion and enhances the fluency of English usage.

Key Characteristics:

• Gerund: The "-ing" form of a verb that acts as a noun (e.g., running, swimming).

• Infinitive: The "to" form of the verb (e.g., to run, to swim).

Some verbs can be followed by both forms, and the meaning remains identical, so the choice between gerund and infinitive is based on style, preference, or sometimes context.

Example 1:

I like swimming. / I like to swim.

• Explanation: Both sentences express the same meaning: the subject enjoys the activity of swimming. Whether using the gerund "swimming" or the infinitive "to swim," the meaning remains unchanged.

Example 2:

She prefers reading books. / She prefers to read books.

• Explanation: In both sentences, the subject expresses a preference for the action of reading books. The use of the gerund "reading" or the infinitive "to read" does not alter the meaning.

These types of verbs (such as "like," "prefer," "love," and "begin") give English speakers flexibility in their expression, allowing them to choose the form that feels more natural or fits the context.