Preposition + -ing

B1 Intermediate

In English, when a verb follows a preposition, it must take the -ing form (the gerund). This rule applies to all prepositions, including those following adjectives, nouns, or other verbs.

Overview

When we want to use an action after a preposition, we cannot use the infinitive. Instead, we use the -ing form. This structure is common after adjectives with fixed prepositions, such as good at or afraid of, and after verbs like think about or apologize for.

Form

Preposition + (not) + verb-ing

The preposition is followed immediately by the gerund. If there is a negative, not comes before the -ing form.

Examples

Common mistakes

I am interested in to learn Japanese.
I am interested in learning Japanese.
Always use the -ing form after a preposition, never the 'to' infinitive.
Thank you for help me.
Thank you for helping me.
Even short, common prepositions like 'for' require the gerund form of the following verb.

To as a Preposition vs. To as an Infinitive

Be careful with the word to. If to is a preposition (like in look forward to or object to), it must be followed by -ing.

Usage	Example
To as part of an infinitive	I want to eat.
To as a preposition	I look forward to meeting you.

Practice

He is afraid of (fly) in small planes.
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flying
Answer:flying
Why:The preposition 'of' must be followed by the -ing form of the verb.
Thank you for (not / make) too much noise.
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not making
Answer:not making
Why:When making the gerund negative, place 'not' directly before the -ing form.
We are looking forward to (see) you again.
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seeing
Answer:seeing
Why:In the phrase 'look forward to', 'to' is a preposition, so it requires the -ing form.