Preferences with two verb patterns

The idea

After like, use an -ing form or a to-infinitive. Both can express a general preference.

Examples

• I like painting small stones.
• We like to walk by the river.
• She likes reading on the train.
• They like to cook together on Sundays.
• He does not like waiting in queues.
• Do you like to dance at parties?

Watch out

Do not put a bare infinitive directly after like: use like dancing or like to dance.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. I like ___ in the sea. (swimming / swim)

   Show answer or example answer

   swimming

   swimming is the available form ending in -ing.

2. Choose the correct option. They like ___ early. (to leave / leave)

   Show answer or example answer

   to leave

   to leave supplies the infinitive with to.

3. Choose the correct option. She likes ___ bread. (baking / bake)

   Show answer or example answer

   baking

   baking fits after likes; bare bake does not.

Use it today

Write two activities you like, using a different pattern for each.