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Angela
Why is it used the ing form instead of to infinitive in this sentence ?
"I heard a hundred different approaches to learning a new languages "
Feb 14, 2022 6:37 AM
Answers · 2
1
With "approach to" you normally use the ing form.
You can only use the infinitive when "to" means "in order to" .
Ex.: A different approach is needed to solve the problem
"To" =in order to solve (verb)
A new approach to learning
=a new way/method used for learning. A new approach to something (noun, or gerund which works as a noun)
February 14, 2022
Hi Angela, this is a gerund. Your action is continuous (so you are learning). Your gerund can also be used to replace some of the nouns after the preposition "to". For example:
I'm accustomed to filter coffee
Gerund example: I'm accustomed to drinking filter coffee.
I'm not used to heavy clothes.
Gerund example: I'm not used to wearing heavy clothes.
I look forward to your letter.
Gerund example: I look forward to receiving a letter from you.
I'm opposed to excessive spending on cosmetics.
Gerund example: I'm opposed to spending excessively on cosmetics.
February 14, 2022
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Angela
Language Skills
English, Italian, Japanese, Ladino (Judeo-Spanish), Spanish
Learning Language
English, Ladino (Judeo-Spanish)
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