C1 GRAMMAR BANK: VERB PATTERNS part 1

In the C1 level you must be able to combine verb chains (V+V) in the correct way. To be able to do so it is important to remember that depending on the first verb, the second one will be used in one or another way. To master the C1 level, you must learn the following rules:

Infinitive and Gerund form of the verbs:

The infinitive is the ‘to’ form of the verb. Examples: to do, to work, to drive.

The gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding –ing. Examples: doing, working, driving. That is why gerunds follow prepositions in many common expressions and after phrasal verbs. Example: I’m thinking of visiting the States next year. They are interested in studying French. You carry on doing his work. I’m looking forward to seeing you. She gave up smoking.

·         V + ‘to’ infinitive:

The following verbs are followed by the ‘to’ infinitive and the ones marked * can also be followed by that + clause:

Examples:

I agree to do the presentation if you prepare the survey.

It appears that I’ve made a mistake.

They can’t afford to buy a new car, but they chose to do it anyway.

He manages to convince people quite easily and pretends not to influence them at all.

During the negotiation they promised to reduce the costs in 5%, but they refuse to do it now.

·         V + object + ‘to’ infinitive:

The following verbs are followed by an object and the ‘to’ infinitive:

Examples:

I advise you to study in the afternoon and employ her to teach you.

You want him to write the speech but there is no way you can persuade him to do so.

·         V + gerund:

The following verbs are followed by a gerund and the ones marked * can also be followed by that + clause:

Examples:

They admitted (to) being members of the gang.

When I finished writing the composition, she suggested changing the topic.

I really enjoy drinking coffee, but I hate preparing it.

You mentioned that this was no good doing.

We cannot risk losing more sales in that city. We’ll delay increasing the prices.

She loves reading and I can’t help buying new books for her in any occasion.

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