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by nuhru_1098 Sat Sep 20, 2008 3:08 pmGerunds after Prepositions
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.
The above rule has no exceptions! So why is "to" followed by "driving" in 1 and by "drive" in 2?
1. I am used to driving on the left.
2. I used to drive on the left.
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.
The above rule has no exceptions! So why is "to" followed by "driving" in 1 and by "drive" in 2?
1. I am used to driving on the left.
2. I used to drive on the left.
Font: englishclub.com
