Verb Patterns (1.0 – 2.0) – STEP 2.
Verb Patterns 1.0
Here are four verb patterns.
1- Verb + to + infinitive
They want to buy a new car. I'd like to go abroad.
2- Verb + -ing
We love going to parties. I enjoy travelling abroad.
3- Verb + -ing or + to + infinitive with no change in meaning
It started to rain/raining.
I continued to work/working in the library.
4- Verb + preposition + -ing
We're thinking of moving house.
I'm looking forward to having more free time.
like doing and would like to do
1- Like doing and love doing express a general enjoyment.
I like working as a teacher. = I am a teacher and I enjoy it.
I love dancing. = This is one of my hobbies.
2- Would like to do and would love to do express a preference now or at a specific time.
I'd like to be a teacher. = When I grow up, I want to be a teacher.
Thanks. I'd love to dance. = At a party. I'm pleased you asked me.
Question and Short answer
Would you like to dance? --- Yes, I would✓Yes, I'd love to.
Would you like to come for a walk? --- Yes, I would✓No, thank you.
Note: No, I wouldn't is not common because it is impolite.
Verb Patterns (1.0 – 2.0) – STEP 2.0
Verb Patterns 2.0
The infinitive
1- The infinitive is used after some verbs.
We've decided to move abroad.
I'm trying to phone Pete.
I want to go home.
She'd love to meet you.
2- Some verbs are followed by a person + the infinitive.
They asked me to help them.
He told me to apply for the job.
3- Make and let are followed by a person + the infinitive without to.
She'll make you feel welcome.
I'll let you know when I'm coming.
4- The infinitive is used after some adjectives.
It's impossible to save money.
Pleased to meet you.
It's great to see you.
It was good to hear your news.
The -ing form
1- The -ing form is used after some verbs.
I enjoy reading history books.
I don't mind helping you.
He's finished washing the car.
We like walking.
2- Some verbs are followed by an object + -ing.
I hate people telling me what to do.
You can't stop me doing what I want.
3- The -ing form is used after prepositions.
I'm good at finding things.
We're thinking of going to Sweden.
He's afraid of being mugged.
I'm looking forward to meeting you.