Gerund vs Infinitive

Verbs That Change Meaning

A small set of verbs — remember, forget, stop, try, regret — change their meaning depending on whether they are followed by a gerund or an infinitive. Mastering these is essential for TOEIC Part 5.

Meaning-Change Verbs

remember + gerund

I remember sending the email. (I recall the past action.)

remember + infinitive

Remember to send the email. (Don't forget to do it in the future.)

forget + gerund

I'll never forget meeting the CEO. (memorable past event)

forget + infinitive

She forgot to attach the file. (failed to do something)

stop + gerund

He stopped smoking. (discontinued the activity)

stop + infinitive

She stopped to read the notice. (paused in order to do something)

try + gerund

Try using a different approach. (experiment — see if it works)

try + infinitive

She tried to open the file. (made an effort / attempt)

regret + gerund

I regret signing that contract. (feel sorry about a past action)

regret + infinitive

I regret to inform you... (formal announcement of bad news)

Example Sentences

I remember sending the invoice last Thursday.

Please remember to submit your timesheet by Friday.

She stopped checking emails after 8 pm to improve work-life balance.

He stopped to read the notice on the board.

The team tried adjusting the algorithm but results did not improve.

She tried to complete the report before the meeting.

I regret signing the contract without consulting legal.

We regret to inform you that your application was unsuccessful.

He will never forget presenting to the executive committee.

Don't forget to copy the client on the final email.

Common Mistakes

I remember to send the email last week.

I remember sending the email last week.

For a recalled past action, use 'remember' + gerund.

She stopped to smoke. (meaning: she quit)

She stopped smoking.

To express quitting an activity, use 'stop' + gerund.

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