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Anuta
Like to do or like doing?
Are there any differences in meaning or using these structures? Which is more common / proper?
Nov 5, 2012 6:34 AM
Answers · 7
6
Both are fine. The difference is minute so you don't need to worry about it.
November 5, 2012
1
You should use ''like doing'' if you really enjoy it, for example "I like clubbing'' and so on.
But you should use '' like to do" if you consider it proper or right, for example "I like to do my homework''. But I think the second variant is used very seldom, because most of us choose other word construstion for it.
November 6, 2012
Finally I found it: Like is followed by the infinitive when it expresses a habit and it is followed by the gerund when it means pleasure.
I like to go to the dentist every 6 months. (It's a habit.)
I like going for long country walks. (It gives me pleasure.)
November 11, 2012
The infinitive clause expresses an "idea", while the -ing clause expresses a "fact". Thus in some contexts (but not in "She likes giving parties"), the infinitive clause may have "neutral" meaning. He likes me to work late. ('...and that's why I do it' or '...but I never do it.') He likes me working late ('...and that's why I do it') ⇒ this is what my grammar book says about it, I hope that helps.
November 7, 2012
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Anuta
Language Skills
English, German, Russian
Learning Language
English, German
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