Unit 1C: Verb Patterns
When we use two verbs together, the form of the second verb usually depends on the first
verb.
- In Spanish there is no ambiguity, it is always the infinitive:
o Quiero salir: I want to go out.
o Evita salir solo: Avoid going out on your own.
o Déjame salir: Let me go out.
Different patterns
1)
Verbs constructed with
the – ing form
avoid
be used/accustomed to
can’t (cannot) stand
cannot help
(no poder evitar)
deny
(not) mind
end up
enjoy
fancy
feel like
finish
give up
go on (continue)
imagine
it’s no good / no use
(no
sirve de nada)
it’s worth
(vale la pena)
keep
keep (on) (continue)
look forward to
(estar
deseando)
miss
practise
quit
resume
(reanudar)
risk
suggest
there’s no point in
(no sirve
de nada)
what / how about …
Any verb or expression
with a preposition is
constructted with the –ing
form:
To accuse of, to be good
at, to prevent from, etc.
+ ____ing
For example:
- I always avoid arguing with my boss.
- I was used to getting up very early. (≠ I used to get up early)
- Mr Callahan can’t stand being interrupted.
- When she said that, I couldn’t help laughing.
- I don’t mind spending this money on a good cause.
- I haven’t finished painting it yet.
- My mum and dad have been very good but I can't go on relying
on them.
(But “I went on to discuss the next point”, pasar a)
- It’s no good /use crying over spilt milk.
- She misses working with you.
- She will resume training as soon as the injury is better.
- I suggest going to the cinema.
2) Verbs constructed with
the to-infinitive
agree
arrange (for)
ask
+ to + infinitive
They agreed to meet us the following day.
Have you arranged to meet Mark this weekend?
Simon has been asking to meet you all evening.
