 |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
93
Verbs followed by either the gerund or the infinitive.
to have
to forget
to intend
to like (dislike)
to plan
to prefer
to remember
to regret
can’t bear
can’t afford*
* On the difference between the use of the gerund and the infinitive with some verbs see § 127.
I can’t bear your (you) being so sad.
We can’t afford going to the cinema too often now, we are revising for our exams.
I prefer walking home (to taking a bus).
After verbs taking an object and an objective predicative the gerund, or rather a gerundial phrase or
construction, is preceded by an introductory object it.
I find it strange our going without you.
I think it no use your (you) arguing about trifles.
As a prepositional object the gerund may follow (a) monotransitive prepositional verbs, (b) ditransitive verbs
taking a direct and a prepositional object, (c) adjectives and statives and (d) participle II, generally when used
as a predicative.
a)
to agree
to object
to look forward
to
to count
to depend
to rely
on
to hear
to learn
to think
of
to persist
to consist
to succeed
in
We all agree to your opening the discussion.
Happiness consists largely in having true friends.
All depends on the doctor being sent for in time.
They are thinking of doing something for him.
b)
to accuse
to suspect
of
to prevent
to stop
from
to thank
to blame
to praise
to punish
to sentence
for
to assist
to help in
to have no difficulty
in
to congratulate smb. on
Roy accused me of disliking him.
What prevented you from becoming a professional actor?
Who will help me in hanging these pictures?
You should blame yourself for getting such a low mark.