[Grammar] Gerund difference (read/reading)

[virus99]

Hi everybody.

I like reading. I like to read.

Is there a big difference? Are both sentences valid?

Thanks a lot!

 

[bhaisahab]

Hi everybody.

I like reading. I like to read.

Is there a big difference? Are both sentences valid?

Thanks a lot!

Yes, both are valid. No, there's not a big difference.

 

[TheParser]

Hi everybody.

I like reading. I like to read.

Is there a big difference? Are both sentences valid?

Thanks a lot!

***** NOT A TEACHER *****



Hello,


(1) The moderator has given you and me an excellent answer.

(2) May I most respectfully add that some people feel this

difference:

gerund = more direct; more emphasis on the action; more personal involvement.

infinitive = more remote; refers to something in general.

(3) Maybe (I repeat: "maybe"):


I like reading. = Shows your enthusiasm and personal involvement.

I like to read. = refers to something in general; remote feeling.

(4) If you had met a friend whom you hadn't seen for ten years,

which sentence do you think is "warmer"?


Wow, Joe! It was great seeing you. We have to get together

sometime soon for lunch.

Well, Joe, it was nice to see you. Maybe we'll meet again sometime.



James