Two-Verb Combinations: Master List
When using any of these verbs first in a two-verb phrase, use the INFINITIVE form of the second verb in the verb phrase:
Example: She pretended to be his friend, but she didn't hesitate to make fun of him behind his back.
| advise | deserve | invite | promise |
| afford | encourage | manage | refuse |
| agree | expect | need | remind |
| allow | fail | offer | require |
| appear | hesitate | permit | want |
| consent | hope | plan | |
| decide | intend | pretend |
When using any of these verbs first in a two-verb phrase, use the GERUND form of the second verb in the verb phrase:
Example: Many adults would like to stop smoking, but they postpone doing that for various reasons.
| anticipate | detest | keep on | quit |
| appreciate | discuss | mention | recommend |
| avoid | dislike | mind | regret |
| consider | enjoy | miss | stop |
| delay | finish | postpone | suggest |
| deny | involve | practice |
When using any of these verbs first in a two-verb phrase, you can use either the INFINITIVE form or the GERUND form of the second verb in the verb phrase--it makes no difference to the meaning of the sentence which form you choose.
Example:
When I begin to learn a new language, I prefer to listen for a long time before I open my mouth to speak.
When I begin learning a new language, I prefer listening for a long time before I open my mouth to speak.
| begin | like | (can't) stand |
| continue | love | start |
| hate | prefer |
When using one of these verbs first in a two-verb phrase, be careful when choosing the form of the second verb in the verb phrase--because in these combinations, using the GERUND creates one meaning and using the INFINITIVE creates a different meaning.
| forget | remember | try |
Example:
TRY as the first verb and an infinitive form of the second verb has a meaning similar to "make an effort, attempt to do something."
She tried to take the typing test, but her long fingernails got in the way.
Example:
TRY as the first verb and a gerund form of the second verb has a meaning similar to "experiment with, test something to see if it works."
In preparation for the final examination, Young Ae tried writing each algebra formula ten times and she also tried reading the formulas aloud a few times before bed.
A. Staben
CLC Writing Center
