Verb patterns 2

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ING or TO

There are verbs that can be followed by both ING and TO. However, the meaning is different.

REMEMBER

I remembered to do it. (= I didn't forget)

I remember doing it. (= I recall the activity)

REGRET

I regret to tell you that… (= I'll tell you now)

I regret telling you lies. (= I told you lies)

TRY

I tried to move the box. (= it was very hard)

I tried moving the table. (= it was an experiment)

NEED

I need to sleep more. (= I will sleep more)

The shirt needs washing. (= somebody has to wash it)

AFRAID

I'm afraid to do it. (= I'm scared but I should do it)

I'm afraid of missing my train.(= I don't want to miss it but it can happen)

INTEREST

I was interested to read about her in the newspaper. (= I was happy)

I am interested in working for you. (= I want to)

SEE, HEAR, FEEL, TOUCH, SMELL, …

After these verbs you can use either ING  or verbs without TO. It slightly affects the meaning.

I saw him leave the house. (= he left the house, I saw it)

I saw him leaving the house. (= he was leaving, I saw it)

EXPRESSIONS + ING

Some expressions are always followed by -ING

It's no use, It's no good, There's no point in, It's worth, Have difficulty

The book is worth reading.

It's no use waiting for her.

CAN'T HELP

This phrase is followed by -ING. It means "you have to do it" (you have no other options)

I can't help loving her. ( – even though she is so troublesome)