Question 1

How do I remember which verbs take object + infinitive?

Accepted Answer

Verbs that take object + infinitive typically involve directing or influencing someone else to do something. "Tell," "ask," "want," "persuade," "encourage," "force," "remind," and "warn" all direct the action towards another person. You can often test by asking: "Who am I directing this action to?" If there is a clear target person, the verb probably takes object + infinitive. Verbs like "suggest," "avoid," and "deny" do not direct action at a specific person — they describe the action itself. Grouping verbs by their meaning helps you remember their patterns naturally.

Question 2

What is the difference between "warn someone to" and "warn someone against"?

Accepted Answer

"Warn someone to do" tells them what to do: "I warned him to be careful" (I advised him to be careful). "Warn someone against doing" tells them what not to do: "I warned him against going alone" (I advised him not to go alone). Both express caution or advice about potential danger. The infinitive form gives positive advice (do this); the "against + gerund" form gives negative advice (don't do this). "I warned her to lock the door" = positive instruction. "I warned her against leaving the door unlocked" = warning not to do something. Both constructions are tested at B2 level.

Question 3

Why can't I say "suggest me to try"?

Accepted Answer

"Suggest" does not take the object + infinitive pattern — this is a fixed rule in English. You cannot say "I suggest you to try" even though you can say "I advise you to try." The reason is historical — English verbs developed with different patterns, and "suggest" always required either a gerund ("suggest trying") or a that-clause ("suggest that you try"). Some languages translate "suggest" with an infinitive, which causes learners to make this mistake. Remember: "suggest doing" or "suggest that someone do" — never "suggest someone to do." This error is one of the most common in Cambridge B1-B2 writing.

Gerunds and Infinitives: Verb Patterns Contrast Practice

Quick Rule

Continue Practising

Gerunds and Infinitives Error Correction

Common Gerund and Infinitive Verbs

Preposition + Gerund

-ed vs -ing Adjectives

Conditionals

Present Perfect