After a preposition always gerund (verb + ing)? Hi there. I've been having problems in order to understand the correct use of the gerund and infinitive. I don't know if there is any rule to understan

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After a preposition always gerund (verb + ing)? Hi there. I've been having problems in order to understand the correct use of the gerund and infinitive. I don't know if there is any rule to understand that but this is in fact the worst problem that I have nowadays studying English. So please, I appreciate any tip or general rule to get the point of the correct use of gerunds/infinitives. Thanks!!

May 31, 2012 8:23 AM

Answers · 5

This is a good rule. It has no exceptions! If we want to use a verb after a preposition, it must be a gerund. It is impossible to use an infinitive after a preposition. So for example, we say: I will call you after arriving at the office. Please have a drink before leaving. I am looking forward to meeting you. Do you object to working late? Tara always dreams about going on holiday. Notice that you could replace all the above gerunds with "real" nouns: I will call you after my arrival at the office. Please have a drink before your departure. I am looking forward to our lunch. Do you object to this job? Tara always dreams about holidays. more info here http://www.englishclub.com/grammar/verbs-gerunds_2.htm

May 31, 2012