Master English Grammar: Gerund and Infinitive Exercises with Answers

Gerund and Infinitive Exercises with Answers

Gerund and Infinitive Exercises with Answers: Mastering the use of gerunds (verb + -ing) and infinitives (to + verb) is a turning point for any English learner. These structures allow you to express complex ideas, describe preferences, and talk about future goals with precision. However, knowing which one to use after specific verbs can be tricky.

This guide provides clear explanations and a comprehensive set of gerund and infinitive exercises with answers to help you build confidence and improve your fluency.

Understanding Gerunds and Infinitives

A gerund acts as a noun in a sentence. We often use them after verbs expressing likes or dislikes, or after prepositions. For example: “I enjoy swimming.”

An infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by “to.” We use infinitives to show purpose or after certain verbs like “want” or “hope.” For example: “I want to swim.”

When to Use a Gerund

• After prepositions: “He is good at singing.”
• As the subject of a sentence: “Eating healthy is important.”
• After specific verbs: These include suggest, enjoy, admit, avoid, and finish.

When to Use an Infinitive

• To show purpose: “I went to the store to buy milk.”
• After adjectives: “It is difficult to learn Japanese.”
• After specific verbs: These include agree, decide, plan, refuse, and promise.

Gerund and Infinitive Exercises with Answers

Practice is the best way to internalize these rules. Test your knowledge with the following exercises.

Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Form

1. She decided _______ (to go / going) to the cinema.
2. I enjoy _______ (to play / playing) tennis on weekends.
3. They suggested _______ (to visit / visiting) the museum.
4. He promised _______ (to help / helping) me with my homework.
5. Avoid _______ (to make / making) too much noise.

Answer Key for Exercise 1

1. to go (Decide takes the infinitive)
2. playing (Enjoy takes the gerund)
3. visiting (Suggest takes the gerund)
4. to help (Promise takes the infinitive)
5. making (Avoid takes the gerund)

100 Practice Sentences

Here are 100 examples to help you see these patterns in natural contexts.

Gerund Examples (1-50)

1. Swimming is great exercise.
2. I finished reading the book.
3. He quit smoking last year.
4. They suggested going for a walk.
5. Cooking is my favorite hobby.
6. She avoids eating junk food.
7. We practiced speaking English.
8. Traveling expands the mind.
9. I don’t mind waiting for you.
10. He admitted stealing the apple.
11. Singing makes her happy.
12. Stop making that noise.
13. They enjoy playing football.
14. Learning takes time.
15. I miss living by the sea.
16. Keep working hard.
17. She finished painting the room.
18. Fishing is very relaxing.
19. We discussed moving to London.
20. He denied breaking the vase.
21. Running keeps me fit.
22. I can’t imagine living there.
23. They postponed having the meeting.
24. Sleeping late is a luxury.
25. She mentioned seeing him.
26. Writing helps me think.
27. Avoid driving in the rain.
28. I risk losing my job.
29. Dancing is fun.
30. He finished cleaning the car.
31. They suggested staying home.
32. I love hiking in mountains.
33. She admitted feeling nervous.
34. Teaching is a noble job.
35. We considered buying a boat.
36. He suggested trying again.
37. I miss seeing my friends.
38. Reading is a good habit.
39. They avoid talking to him.
40. She finished doing her hair.
41. Skating is difficult.
42. I enjoy meeting new people.
43. He admitted taking the money.
44. Walking is good for health.
45. We discussed changing the plan.
46. She kept talking all night.
47. I don’t like shopping.
48. Painting relaxes me.
49. They suggested watching a movie.
50. He denied knowing the truth.

Infinitive Examples (51-100)

51. I want to go home.
52. He promised to call me.
53. They agreed to help us.
54. She hopes to travel soon.
55. It is easy to learn this.
56. I forgot to bring my key.
57. We decided to stay here.
58. He refused to answer.
59. I need to buy some milk.
60. She asked to join the club.
61. It is time to leave.
62. They plan to start a business.
63. I forgot to mail the letter.
64. He offered to drive me.
65. It is hard to say goodbye.
66. She seems to be tired.
67. We managed to finish early.
68. I hope to see you later.
69. He chose to work alone.
70. It is good to be back.
71. They intend to move soon.
72. I expect to pass the test.
73. She prepared to speak.
74. It is important to listen.
75. We agreed to meet at six.
76. He failed to arrive on time.
77. I need to find a job.
78. She learned to play piano.
79. It is nice to meet you.
80. They decided to buy a car.
81. I want to learn French.
82. He offered to pay.
83. It is wrong to lie.
84. She promised to stay.
85. We hope to win the game.
86. I forgot to lock the door.
87. He chose to stay home.
88. It is fun to play games.
89. They planned to go abroad.
90. I need to take a break.
91. She refused to give up.
92. It is vital to sleep well.
93. We arranged to see him.
94. He seems to like music.
95. I want to see the world.
96. She learned to cook well.
97. It is easy to find.
98. They promised to return.
99. I hope to find my cat.
100. He agreed to sign it.

Did you find these exercises helpful? Share this article with a fellow student or stay updated with our latest grammar guides by subscribing to our newsletter!

Disclaimer on Gerund and Infinitive Exercises with Answers

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, grammar rules can vary by dialect and context. Always consult a certified language instructor for specific academic requirements.

Also Read: Mastering English Grammar: How to Use Gerunds as Subjects

How to Use Present Participle Adjectives: A Complete Guide for Clearer Writing

admin