Like/hate/love + -ing
A1 BeginnerUse the -ing form of a verb after like, love, hate, and enjoy to talk about general preferences and hobbies.
Overview
When we talk about activities we like or dislike in general, we use a verb of preference followed by the -ing form (the gerund). This structure describes a feeling about the action itself rather than a specific event.
Form
Subject + like/love/hate/enjoy + verb-ing
The main verb (like, love, hate, enjoy) changes to match the subject, but the second verb always ends in -ing. If the verb ends in -e, remove it before adding -ing (e.g., write -> writing).
Examples
Common mistakes
I like play football.
I like playing football.
You must add -ing to the second verb after like.
She enjoys to dance.
She enjoys dancing.
The verb enjoy is followed by the -ing form, not the infinitive with 'to'.
Practice
Complete the sentence: My brother loves (watch) ______ movies.
Show answer
watching
Answer:watching
Why:After the verb 'love', we use the -ing form of the action.
Change to negative: Sarah likes running.
Show answer
Sarah doesn't like running.
Answer:Sarah doesn't like running.
Why:To make a negative, use 'don't' or 'doesn't' before the preference verb; the -ing form remains the same.
Which is correct? A) I hate to cleaning. B) I hate cleaning.
Show answer
B
Answer:B
Why:'Hate' is followed directly by the -ing form without 'to'.