In our lesson, we will talk about the “like verb-ing” / “like to verb” structures. Let’s explore the two structures: “like verb-ing” and “like to verb.” Both are used to express preferences or enjoyment, but they have subtle differences in usage and meaning.
Example Sentences:
- “I like swimming” (“Swimming” is the activity you enjoy.)
- “She likes to read before bed.” (She chooses to read as part of her routine.)
Basic Structure
“Like Verb-ing” Structure
The structure is: “like” + verb + “-ing”. Here, “like” is the main verb, and the “-ing” form is called the gerund. A gerund is a verb form that functions as a noun.
Usage
- This structure is often used to talk about general preferences or hobbies.
- It emphasizes the enjoyment of the activity as a whole.
Examples
- “She likes reading.” (She enjoys the activity of reading.)
- “They like cooking.” (They enjoy the process of cooking.)
“Like to Verb” Structure
“Like“: Again, this is the main verb indicating preference.”To” + base form of the verb: This is the infinitive form, which can express a specific instance or intention to do the activity.
Usage
- This structure can be used to talk about specific occasions or intentions.
- It sometimes implies a choice or decision to do the activity.
Examples
- “She likes to read before bed.” (She chooses to read as part of her routine.)
- “They like to cook on weekends.” (They prefer cooking during weekends specifically.)
“like verb-ing” and “like to verb” have subtle differences in usage and meaning. There is an argument that “like verb-ing” is used to talk about enjoyment of an activity more, and “like to verb” is used to talk about choices and habits associated with activities. Both structures are correct, so don’t worry too much about making a mistake.
| Structure | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| like verb-ing | Expresses general preference or enjoyment of an activity | I like swimming. |
| like to verb | Expresses preference for doing something in general or habitually | I like to swim on weekends. |
Basic Question Structure
“Like Verb-ing” Question Structure
Structure: “Do/Does” + subject + “like” + verb + “-ing”?
Examples:
- Do you like swimming?
- “Do” is the auxiliary verb used to form the question.
- “You” is the subject.
- “Like” is the main verb.
- “Swimming” is the activity you’re asking about.
“Like to Verb” Question Structure
Structure: “Do/Does” + subject + “like” + “to” + base form of the verb?
- Do you like to swim?
- “Do” is the auxiliary verb.
- “You” is the subject.
- “Like” is the main verb.
- “To swim” is the activity you’re asking about.
Summary
“Like verb-ing”: Use this structure to talk about enjoying an activity in general. For example, “I like swimming” means you enjoy the activity of swimming.
“Like to verb”: Use this structure to express a preference or choice to do an activity, often in specific situations.
Grammar Exercises
Practice online and check your results with answers.