Summary of Verbs: Gerunds and Infinitives

Goals

1. Correctly use gerunds and infinitives by placing verbs in the right form.

2. Identify verbs in gerund and infinitive forms within texts.

Contextualization

Imagine you're in a job interview for an international role, and the interviewer asks you to discuss your daily activities. Being able to use gerunds and infinitives correctly can be the game changer between clear and confusing communication. In English, these verb forms are essential for expressing ongoing actions or intentions, and getting them right gives you an edge in the competitive job market. For instance, you might say, 'I am working on a project' or 'I want to lead a team.'

Subject Relevance

To Remember!

Using Gerunds in English

Gerunds in English are formed by adding '-ing' to the verb. They frequently indicate ongoing or continuous actions and can serve as the subject, object, or complement in sentences. In a professional context, gerunds describe tasks and responsibilities that are ongoing.

• Formation: add '-ing' to the verb (e.g., work -> working).

• As a subject: 'Working is essential.'

• As an object: 'I enjoy working.'

• After prepositions: 'He excels at managing.'

Using Infinitives in English

The infinitive form of a verb is its base form precedented by 'to'. It's utilized to express purpose, intention, or desire and can act as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. In professional scenarios, the infinitive is handy for discussing goals and intentions.

• Formation: 'to' + base verb (e.g., to manage).

• Expressing purpose: 'I am here to assist.'

• After adjectives: 'It's crucial to understand.'

• As a subject: 'To succeed is our aim.'

Differences and Similarities Between Gerunds and Infinitives

While gerunds and infinitives may function similarly, they possess specific rules, which can alter a sentence's meaning. Knowing when to use each form is essential for maintaining language accuracy.

• Gerund for ongoing actions: 'She is working.'

• Infinitive for purpose or intention: 'She aspires to work.'

• Some verbs can be followed by either gerund or infinitive, with subtle shifts in meaning: 'He stopped smoking' vs 'He stopped to smoke.'

• Certain verbs: 'enjoy' is followed by gerund ('enjoy working'), while 'want' is followed by infinitive ('want to work').

Practical Applications

• List ongoing responsibilities on a CV: 'Responsible for leading a team.'

• Craft concise professional emails: 'I am writing to inform you about the meeting.'

• Prepare for interviews: 'I enjoy working in a collaborative environment.'

Key Terms

• Gerund: A verbal form in English indicating continuous actions, formed with the suffix '-ing'.

• Infinitive: The basic verb form preceded by 'to', used to indicate purpose or intention.

• Linguistic Accuracy: The ability to use language correctly and clearly, crucial for effective communication in a professional setting.

Questions for Reflections

• How does the precision in choosing between gerund and infinitive affect the clarity of your professional communication?

• What challenges have you encountered while using gerunds and infinitives during classroom activities?

• In what ways can you apply your knowledge of gerunds and infinitives in real-life job market scenarios?

Professional Communication Challenge

In this challenge, you will craft a brief simulated dialogue in a professional setting, accurately using verbs in gerund and infinitive forms.

Instructions

• Form a group of 3-4 members.

• Select a professional scenario (like a team meeting or a job interview).

• Develop a 5-7 line dialogue for this scenario, including at least three examples of gerunds and three of infinitives.

• Practice the dialogue and present it to the class.

• Post-presentation, discuss the usages of the verbs presented, making corrections as necessary.