Verb +-Ing

Introduction: 

Navigating the nuances of the English language can sometimes feel like embarking on a fascinating journey. Among its many peculiarities, the use of verbs followed by "-ing" stands as a notable feature, adding depth and flexibility to our expressions. Whether conveying ongoing actions, expressing preferences, or indicating a sequence of events, understanding when to employ this structure is crucial for effective communication. Let's embark on a journey through the intricacies of verbs ending in "-ing" and explore how they enrich our linguistic landscape.

A. Usage: After verbs like "enjoy," "mind," "suggest," etc., we use the -ing form of the verb.

Examples:

• I enjoy reading. (Not: I enjoy to read.)
• Would you mind closing the door? (Not: mind to close)
• Chris suggested going to the cinema. (Not: suggested to go)

Other verbs followed by -ing:

• Suddenly everybody stopped talking. There was silence.
• I’ll do the shopping when I’ve finished cleaning the flat.
• He tried to avoid answering my question.
• I don’t fancy going out this evening. (I’m not enthusiastic about it)
• Have you ever considered going to live in another country?
• They said they were innocent. They denied doing anything wrong.

B. Additional Verbs: Certain verbs also take the -ing form.

Examples:

• I’ve given up buying newspapers. I don’t read them anymore.
• You shouldn’t put off telling him what happened. You need to tell him now.
• Katherine doesn’t want to retire. She wants to go on working. (or carry on working)
• You keep interrupting when I’m talking. (or You keep on interrupting...)

C. Verb + Somebody + -ing: Some verbs can be followed by the structure "verb + somebody + -ing."

Examples:

• You can’t stop people doing what they want.
• I can’t imagine George riding a motorbike.
• Did she really say that? I don’t remember her saying that.
• Sorry to keep you waiting so long.

D. Finished Actions: When referring to finished actions, we can use "having + past participle."

Examples:

• They admitted having stolen the money. (Or: They admitted stealing the money.)
• I now regret saying that. (Or: I now regret having said that.)

E. Other Structures: Verbs like "admit," "deny," "suggest," and "recommend" can be used in other structures, such as with "that" clauses.

Examples:

• They denied (that) they had done anything wrong. (Or: They denied doing...)
• Chris suggested (that) we go to the cinema. (Or: Chris suggested going...)
• I recommend (that) you travel by train. (Or: I recommend travelling...)

Try this exercise to test your grammar.

Language Level