In this lesson, we will look at the five English sentence types, and guide you on the correct usage of gerunds and infinitives.
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Key Points |
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In the first sentence type, the verb is an intransitive verb. Intransitive verbs are verbs that can exist alone without adding anything behind them. They do not need an object to complete their meaning. They are often followed by adverbs, prepositional phrases, and adverb clauses. Examples include "laugh," "snow," "rain," "come," "go," "leave," "return," "walk," "run," "jump," "fly," "live," "stand," "sit," and "lie." To better understand the use of this sentence structure, let's look at various example sentences.
I
laughed. |
Here are more example sentences:
I laughed.
It
rained heavily.
I went to Japan last
summer. Have you ever
been there?
I am flying to London
next month.
Jack is coming with
me.
Some students live on
the university campus.
She left South Africa
at the age of 15 and
has never returned.
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Key Points |
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The second sentence type, known as S + V + S. C (Subject + Verb + Subject Complement), typically involves the use of an adjective or noun as a subject complement to describe the subject. Verbs in the second sentence type include "be" verbs and other verbs such as “taste”, “feel”, “smell”, “sound”, “appear”, “look”, “seem”, “become”, “turn”, “remain”, and “stay”. To better understand the use of this sentence structure, let's look at various example sentences.
That man
is a
receptionist. He
looks tall
and
seems friendly. |
The subject complement can also be an "infinitive phrase" or a "gerund phrase". In English grammar, "gerund phrases" and "infinitive phrases" can be used as nouns, so they can also be used as subject complements. Take a look at the following examples.
My goal is to score
900 on the TOEIC exam = My goal
is scoring 900 on the
TOEIC exam.
The number one priority for us now
is to cut down
operation costs. = The number one priority for us now
is cutting down
operation costs.
Our long-term aim
is to improve the
company's profitability. = Our long-term aim
is improving the
company's profitability.
Example: Due to their usefulness in business, smartphones and tablet PCs are becoming _____ among many professionals.
(A) ubiquitous
(B) ubiquity
(C) ubiquitously
(D) ubiquities
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The correct answer is (A) ubiquitous. The linking verb "becoming" requires an adjective as the subject complement. "Ubiquitous" means found everywhere; the other choices are noun or adverb forms. |
▶️Subject + be verb + adjective + preposition + noun/gerund
A very common structure in the second sentence type is the "Be verb + adjective + preposition". This involves using a verb, followed by an adjective (often as a past participle), and a preposition to create an idiomatic phrase. It's important to note that a noun must follow the preposition. If the word following the preposition is a verb, it should be converted into a "gerund" form.
I am worried about my
new job.
The venue
was crowded with
people.
She
is keen on playing
tennis.
I am used to getting
up early.
The government
is committed to
improving the education system.
The Children's Investment Fund Foundation
has been dedicated to
improving the lives of children in developing countries.
With the prevalence of online shopping sites, people
are now accustomed to
buying things online.
Many people
are opposed to
building a new nuclear power plant.
Robert
is pleased with his
progress at the company.
He
is capable of being in
charge of this project.
▶️ Subject + be verb + adjective + infinitive
It is customary for certain adjectives to be followed by infinitives. Adjectives of this type are usually used to express feelings, reactions, or attitudes.
He
is certain to get the
job.
I
am happy to help
you.
She
is determined to lose
weight.
They
were delighted to be invited
to the wedding.
We believe our team
should be able to complete
the research project before the deadline.
Ryan
is likely to take
early retirement.
If you
are willing to fly at
night, you can probably get a cheap ticket.
I
am not available to cover
your shift next week. You will have to find someone else to take
your shift.
The editor
is ready to submit the
revised article.
We
are pleased to notify
you that your application for our accounting position has been
approved.
After a year of restrictions and quarantines, people
were anxious to get out
and enjoy traveling.
▶️Subject + be verb + adjective + that noun clause
This sentence structure starts with a subject, most often a person, followed by a "be" verb and an adjective. This adjective typically conveys an emotion, reaction, or attitude. After the adjective, a "that noun clause" follows, which can vary in tenses. Interestingly, the word "that" can be left out and the sentence would still make sense. For example:
I am afraid (that) I
won't be able to come tomorrow.
I
am certain (that) he
will get the job.
I'm
so happy (that)
everything is working out for you.
I
was so proud (that) my
son had been chosen for the national team.
I am sorry (that) you
didn't pass the exam.
Example: The GMC Institute is pleased ______ sponsoring your organization and will continue raising public awareness about climate change.
(A) continue
(B) continuing
(C) to continuing
(D) to continue
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The correct answer is (D) to continue. The adjective "pleased" can be followed by an infinitive, so "is pleased to continue sponsoring" is grammatical. The other choices do not complete the adjective-plus-infinitive structure. |
Example: Solar Tech is committed ______ clean and renewable energy sources.
(A) to develop
(B) to developing
(C) developing
(D) developed
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The correct answer is (B) to developing. This question involves the usage of "be committed to" followed by a noun or gerund. In this case, 'to' is a preposition, hence it should be followed by a noun or a gerund. Therefore, the correct answer is (B) to developing. Note: A very common structure in the second sentence type is the "Be verb + adjective + preposition". This involves using a verb, followed by an adjective (often as a past participle), and a preposition to create an idiomatic phrase. It's important to note that a noun must follow the preposition. If the word following the preposition is a verb, it should be converted into a "gerund" form. |
Example: BTCA Inc's annual aim is _______ its global sales by 25% by expanding its business in Asia.
(A) increase
(B) to increasing
(C) to increase
(D) increased.
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The correct answer is (C) to increase. In the sentence, the subject is "BTCA Inc's annual aim," the verb is "is," and the subject complement is “ _______ its global sales". A subject complement can be a noun, an adjective, an infinitive phrase, or a gerund phrase. Out of the four options, only option (C) is an infinitive phrase, making it the correct choice. |
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Key Points |
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The third sentence type has two forms: (1) S+V+O (subject + verb + object) I just ate a sandwich. (2) S+V+ Prep +O (subject + verb + preposition + object) I will wait for you. |
▶️ S+V+O (subject + verb + object)
We'll discuss it
tomorrow.
He has a high-paying
job.
I work night shifts
today.
The mayor proposed a
plan for a new bridge.
The company president
has announced her
retirement.
▶️ S+V+ Prep +O (subject + verb + preposition + object)
“verb + preposition” is commonly known as a "phrasal verb". Examples of phrasal verbs include “agree with”, “get on”, "get off", “keep up with”, etc.
Can I
speak to/with Dan,
please?
We agree with your
opinion.
He got off the
bus.
Smart Investors always
keep up with market
trends to make wise investment decisions.
I will
take care of
organizing the workshop.
Many nonprofit organizations
contributed to raising
environmental awareness.
Protesters
objected to
passing the new trade agreement
between Taiwan and China.
In the “S+V+O (subject + verb + object)” sentence type, the object
is often a noun. However, the object can also appear in the form of
"infinitive", "gerund" and "noun clause".
A noun clause is a group of words that functions as a noun in a sentence. It usually begins with words like "that", "what", "why", "how", etc. We will look at the noun clause in detail in Lesson 19. Example sentences:
The prime minister
has announced that
public spending will be increased next year.
I suggest that we
wait a while before we
make any firm decisions.
An infinitive refers to "to + V". It is the base form of a verb with 'to' in front of it - for example, 'to run', 'to eat', 'to play', etc. Example sentences:
I need to book a flight to Atlanta.
A gerund refers to "Ving”. It is a verb ending in '-ing' that functions as a noun. For example, 'running', 'eating', 'playing', etc. Example sentences:
Can you finish editing the report by the end of this week?
You might be wondering, which verbs are followed by "infinitives"? Which verbs are followed by "gerunds"? In general, if an action has occurred or is currently happening, a gerund should follow the primary verb.
I plan to study abroad next year.
👉 The action of studying hasn't happened yet, so use the infinitive
I quit smoking.
👉 This smoking behavior has already happened, so use the
gerund
In the following sections, we will explore which verbs are followed
by "gerunds" and which ones are followed by "infinitives".
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Like verbs
feeling and mood verbs
Allow verbs
continue and stop verbs
Advice and Opinion Kinds of Verbs
other verbs |
▶️ enjoy, like, dislike, love, hate, prefer
Ivan really
enjoys running
marathons, but his girlfriend
dislikes
jogging.
I hate driving during
rush hour. = I hate to
drive during rush hour.
My dad loves eating at
food stands. = My dad
loves to eat at food
stands.
I like eating beef
noodles. = I like to
eat beef noodles.
I prefer eating at
restaurants. = I
prefer to eat at
restaurants.
▶️ feel like, mind, miss, appreciate, imagine, can't help, can't stand, can't bear, regret
I miss playing
badminton.
I regret drinking too
much last night. I don't
feel like going to the
bar tonight.
I appreciate you
inviting me to the party.
Jason doesn't
mind staying late at
work, but I don't like working overtime.
I can't imagine working
overseas.
This comedy is very funny. I
can't help
laughing.
I can't stand waiting in
the line. = I
can't stand to wait in
the line.
He can't bear being
bored = He can't bear to
be bored.
▶️ suggest, recommend, consider, advocate, propose
The board of directors
suggest acquiring this
smaller company.
I advocate expanding
our company's product line and
consider increasing our
price.
If you don't know
where to go in Tainan,
I recommend visiting
the CHIMEI Museum.
Several senators have
proposed raising the
tax. = Several senators have
proposed to raise the
tax.
▶️ practice, give up, risk, finish, admit, delay, deny
I used to
practice running three
days a week.
I gave up dieting and
losing weight a long time ago.
If you don't sell this stock, you might
risk losing all of
your savings.
I can finish editing
the report by the end of this week.
We should
delay deciding about
this
until tomorrow.
Neil denies breaking
the window.
Jennifer
admitted cheating on
the test.
▶️ permit, avoid
New small businesses should
avoid competing against
companies that provide a similar range of services or
products.
The museum does not
permit smoking.
▶️ resume/continue/go on/keep, discontinue. begin/start, stop
“Keep”, “resume”, and “discontinue” can only be followed by gerunds.
“begin/start”, “continue”, “go on”, and
“stop” can be followed
by gerunds and infinitives.
If things keep going
like this, we'll have to close the business.
We should
discontinue selling
this product.
He stopped to take a
sip of water and then
resumed speaking.
Next, we will look at verbs followed by an infinitive.
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Emotional verbs:
Beginning and stopping verbs:
Desire verbs:
Planning verbs:
Suggesting verbs:
Agreeing and disagreeing verbs:
Choosing verbs:
Attempting verbs:
Others: |
▶️ want to, need to, wish/hope to, expect to, would like to
I need to book a
flight to Atlanta.
Hi, I'd like to make a
reservation for three at six o'clock this Saturday.
Passengers who wish to
take the Kings Cross train should board now.
I didn't expect to see
you here.
▶️ plan to, aim to, decide to, intend to
Most brands these days
aim to create a
lucrative niche for themselves and stand out from their
competitors.
It was reported that Microsoft
planned to acquire
Activision Blizzard for 69 billion.
If you intend to quit
your job, you need to give a week's notice.
▶️ offer to, ask to, promise to
We were extremely understaffed last week. Luckily, Mike and Kelvin
offered to work
overtime.
I promise to call my
boss every day to give him an update on the progress of the new
construction project.
▶️ agree to, refuse to
They refused to insure
us because they said
we're too old.
Activision Blizzard
agreed to accept the
acquisition deal offered by Microsoft.
▶️ try to, attempt to, seek to
The company got into debt and
tried to downsize, but
eventually, it still went bankrupt.
Many companies these days
attempt to maximize
profits by diversifying their revenue sources.
Six journalists
sought to challenge in
court the legality of the ban on broadcasting.
▶️ afford to buy/pay, manage to, fail to
Back then people could
afford to buy a house
on a normal salary, but nowadays house prices are so high that most
people can only
afford to buy a small
condo.
Despite the low pricing policy, the company's competitor has
failed to boost
sales.
A dramatic sales slump can take a heavy toll on any business, and
few businesses
manage to recover from
it.
Example: Mr. Lee considered _______ early retirement so he could start his own business, but he finally decided not to take the risk.
(A) to take
(B) took
(C) taken
(D) taking
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The correct answer is (D) taking. In this sentence, "considered" is an opinion verb that requires a gerund (V-ing form) or noun to follow it. "Taking" is the gerund form of the verb "take" and functions as a noun in this sentence. Therefore, "considered taking" is the correct usage.
Note: Advice and opinion verbs such as “suggest”,
“recommend”, “consider”, “advocate”, and “propose” are
often ollowed by a noun, a gerund, and a noun clause.
(B) "took" is the past tense of "take", and it cannot
follow "consider" directly because "consider" requires a
noun or gerund after it, not a regular verb form. |
Example: Louisa Coffee has been seeking _______ overseas, opening four stores in Thailand at the end of 2020, while it is surveying markets in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the U. S., and China.
(A) expand
(B) to expand
(C) to expanding
(D) expanding
|
The correct answer is (B) to expand. The verb "seek" is followed by an infinitive when it means to attempt or aim to do something. Therefore, "has been seeking to expand overseas" is correct. The gerund and other verb forms do not fit this structure. |
Example: After facing pressure from the public for weeks, ABC Cosmetics admitted _______ toxic chemicals into the ocean.
(A) be dumping
(B) to dump
(C) having dumped
(D) dumped
|
The correct answer is (C) having dumped.
(B) "to dump" is incorrect because after "admit," we
should use either a noun or a gerund. The infinitive (to +
base form of the verb) is not appropriate in this
context. |
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Key Points |
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In the fourth sentence type, two objects are needed after the verb to complete the meaning of the sentence. Usually, one object is a person, and the other object is a thing. There is also often a preposition between two objects. To better understand the use of this sentence structure, let's look at various example sentences.
I
offered him
a job.
I lent him
$1000 dollars. = I lent $1000 dollars to him. |
Here are more example sentences:
He borrowed $1000
dollars from me.
He owed me $1000
dollars.
The principal
granted the students
an award. = The principal
granted awards to the
students.
The trip to Europe will
cost us over $4000 USD
for just a week.
The bank charges me
service fees every time I transfer money to another account.
They'll provide you
with room and board. = They'll
provide room and board
for you.
This song reminds me
of my high school days.
Newcastle Council has
informed us of a
series of road closures.
Fortune Investments
notified its
shareholders of the proposed merger and acquisition.
I will ask the doctor to
advise me on the best
treatment for my sore throat.
Can you tell me how
to get to the library?
I called Jane and
reminded her (that)
the conference had been canceled.
The company
notified me that I
didn't get the job.
The boss
informed Camille that
she would be promoted next month.
The doctors
advised the public
that people should have the vaccinations before going abroad.
Example: OPH Corporation ______ every employee an opportunity for promotion and pay raise on a yearly basis.
(A) offered
(B) provided
(C) decided
(D) charged
|
The correct answer is (A) offered. The usage “offer someone something” matches the sentence pattern here: “OPH Corporation offered every employee an opportunity for promotion‘. |
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Key Points |
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In the fifth sentence structure, the verb is followed by an object and an object complement. The object complement can be an adjective, a gerund, an infinitive, a past participle, or even the base form of a verb. To better understand the use of this sentence structure, let's look at various example sentences.
I
found this
book interesting. |
▶️ keep, find, leave + object + adjective/present participle (gerund)/past participle
I like to keep my
room clean.
Please leave me
alone.
I find it difficult
to talk to Lawrence.
The noise from their party
kept me awake half the
night.
I am sorry to
keep you waiting.
👉The object in the sentence is “you”, “you” are in the state of waiting, so the present participle “waiting” is used.
We will keep you posted/updated.
👉 The object in the sentence is “you”, “you” are in a state of being informed at any time, so the past participle “posted/updated” is used.
More example sentences:
Don't leave the water
running while you are brushing your teeth.
I left the children
watching television.
We need to keep our
current assembly line running as our production is running a bit
behind now.
Please keep all staff
informed about any scheduling changes to the upcoming
conference.
▶️ see, notice, hear, smell, catch + object + gerund/base verb
When a present participle follows a sensory verb and its object, it highlights the ongoing and immediate nature of the action.
I saw them cooking
and smelled something
burning.
The teacher
noticed Jack cheating
in the exam.
I caught your
boyfriend cheating on you.
David heard someone knocking on
the door.
On the other hand, if the base verb follows the sensory verb and its object, it emphasizes the completeness of the action or event.
I see the bus #15
drive past my house every day.
I saw him go out with
his ex yesterday.
▶️ help + object + base verb/infinitive
Can you help me (to)
carry this bag?
The $10, 000 loan from the bank
helped her (to) start
her own business.
Exercising every day can help you (to) relieve work-related stress.
▶️ make, let, have + object + base verb
He decided to let his
hair grow long.
Let me know what you
decide.
I usually have my
assistant run the errand.
My boss made me work
the night shift last month.
What made you change
your mind?
▶️ get + object + infinitive
I will get Jessie to
pick up the parcel for me.
I can't get my
computer to work!
I can't get my
computer working!
▶️ make, have, get + object + past participle
▶️ let + object + be + past participle
If the object is the action of the receiver, the past participle is used.
I had my hair cut.
She has her hair
permed.
I had my homework
done, my room cleaned, and my computer fixed.
I got my bag caught
in the train doors as they were closing.
I'm trying to
get this article
finished/done by Friday.
I had to yell to
make myself heard
above the sound of the music at the nightclub.
I can make myself
understood in Japanese, but I'm not fluent in Japanese.
We can't let the news
be released.
▶️ want, need, expect, would like + object + infinitive
Our CEO wants us to
reorganize the publicity department.
We need a few of our
employees to work night shifts.
I expect you to work
harder.
I would like you to
be in charge of this project.
▶️ request, require, force + object + infinitive
Most hotels
request hotel guests
to vacate their rooms by noon.
The law
requires everyone to
pay the tax.
Our company forces us
to work overtime without giving us overtime pay.
▶️ enable, allow, cause + object + infinitive
Mass layoffs
caused the
unemployment rate to surge.
The loophole has
allowed hundreds of
drunk drivers to avoid prosecution.
Outsourcing manufacturing to overseas companies will
enable us to cut our
production costs to half.
▶️ permit, authorize, forbid + object + infinitive
The security system will not
permit you to enter the
entrance without the correct password.
The government has
authorized the central
hospital to offer vaccination to all eligible patients.
Professor Darcy
forbids his students to
use cell phones during the exam.
▶️ tell, remind, advise, encourage, persuade + object + infinitive
I told her to go home.
The professor reminds us
to hand in assignments on time.
My professor
encouraged me to apply to
Stanford University.
We would advise you to
get vaccinated before you go abroad.
Our sales team is working hard to
persuade foreign
companies to purchase our latest HR software.
▶️ verb + object + to + gerund
He dedicated his life to freeing the world from famine and disease.
Example: It is essential that we try harder to improve customer satisfaction levels and keep our company more _____.
(A) competitive
(B) competitively
(C) compete
(D) competition
|
The correct answer is (A) competitive. The structure "keep + object + adjective" requires an adjective to describe "our company." "Competitive" is the adjective; the other choices are an adverb, verb, and noun. |
Example: Business advisors usually _____ small-scale businesses to find a niche in their target market that has no serious competition.
(A) notify
(B) advise
(C) assure
(D) inform
|
The correct answer is (B) advise. "Advise" follows the pattern "advise + object + to + verb": advisors advise businesses to find a niche. "Notify," "assure," and "inform" require different complements and do not fit this meaning. |
Example: As the photocopier was out of order, Mr. Jenson got a staff member _____ a technician.
(A) call
(B) calling
(C) to call
(D) called
|
The correct answer is (C) to call. The causative structure "get + person + to + verb" is used when someone arranges for another person to do something. Therefore, "got a staff member to call a technician" is correct. |
Example： You should have your vehicle _____ by a certified mechanic.
(A) inspected
(B) inspecting
(C) to inspect
(D) inspect
|
The correct answer is (A) inspected. The causative structure "have + object + past participle" means arranging for a service to be performed. Thus, "have your vehicle inspected" means arrange for a mechanic to inspect it. |
Many verbs can be used differently, depending on the context. A great way to understand these usages is by studying example sentences in dictionaries. By reading these examples several times and reflecting on the sentence structure, you can naturally learn how to use the verb. There's no need for rote memorization of grammar rules.
▶️ Leave
The first sentence type: I'll be
leaving at five o'clock
tomorrow.
The third sentence type: I
left work early
yesterday.
The third sentence type: I
left my keys on the
desk.
The fifth sentence type: He
left the engine
running.
The fifth sentence type: Can you
leave the window
open?
▶️ buy
The third sentence type: I will
buy dinner later.
The fourth sentence type: I will
buy you a drink.
▶️ drive
The first sentence type: He is
driving too
fast.
The third sentence type: He
drove a BMW.
The fifth sentence type: His lazy attitude is
driving me
crazy.
▶️ work
The first sentence type: I
work hard.
The third sentence type: I
work night shifts
today.
▶️ open
The first sentence type: The Olympic Games
open tomorrow.
The second sentence type: The mall
opens late
tomorrow.
The third sentence type: I'm going to
open an account with
another bank.
▶️ stay
The first sentence type: I
stayed in Paris for two
weeks, then flew home.
The second sentence type: The shops
stay open
until nine
o'clock.
The second sentence type: They
stayed friends after
their divorce.
▶️ cause
The third sentence type: Smoking can
cause respiratory
diseases.
The fifth sentence type: The bright light
caused her to
blink.
▶️ make
The third sentence type: He
made a chocolate
cake.
The fifth sentence type: The photograph
makes me look about
80!
▶️ get
The second sentence type: Your coffee's
getting cold.
The third sentence type: I
got a phone call from
Phil last night.
The fifth sentence type: I'm trying to
get this article
finished by Thursday.
The fifth sentence type: I can't
get my computer to
work/working!
▶️ have
The third sentence type:
When are we
having dinner?
The fifth sentence type: I will
have someone pick up
the package.
▶️ hope
The third sentence type: They
hope to visit us next
year.
The third sentence type: I
hope (that) she'll
win.
▶️ wish
The third sentence type: I
wish to make a
complaint.
The third sentence type: I
wish she'd shut up for a
minute.
The fourth sentence type: We
wish you every success
in the future.
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tell (fourth and fifth sentence verbs) |
|
|
✦The following usages are the fourth type of sentence usage. Tell must be followed by the object to be spoken as the object |
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|
S + tell + person + thing |
You need to tell me the truth. |
|
S + tell + person + about + thing |
The supervisor will tell the workers about the new safety regulations tomorrow. |
|
S + tell + person + noun clause |
Did you tell anyone (that) you were coming to see me? Can you tell me how to get to the library? |
|
✦ The following usage is the fifth type of sentence usage, the infinitive is used as the subject complement |
|
|
S + tell + person + infinitive |
I told her to go home. |
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assure (fourth sentence verbs) |
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|
S+ assure + object + of + thing |
The unions assured the new owners of the workers' loyalty to the company. |
|
S+ assure + object + noun clause |
The prime minister assured the electorate (that) taxes would not be increased after the election. |
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notify (third and fourth sentence verbs) |
|
|
The third type of sentence |
|
|
S + notify + object |
The school is required to notify parents if their children fail to come to school. |
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The fourth type of sentence |
|
|
S+ notify + object + of + |
The company will notify us of the news by email. |
|
S+ notify + object + noun clause |
The company notified me that I didn't get the job. |
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inform (third and fourth sentence verbs) |
|
|
The third type of sentence |
|
|
S + inform + object |
We'll inform you when a decision has been reached. |
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The fourth type of sentence |
|
|
S+ inform + object + of + |
Newcastle Council have informed us of a series of road closures. |
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S+ inform + object + noun clause |
The boss informed Camille that she would be promoted next month. |
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advise (the third, fourth, and fifth sentence verbs) |
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The third type of sentence |
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S+ advise + gerund |
My financial advisor advises against investing in this stock. He thinks it is too risky. I advise selling your old car. |
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S+ advise + noun clause |
Doctors advised that he should be transferred to a private room. |
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The fourth type of sentence |
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S+ advise + object + on + |
The business consultants are typically hired to advise companies on how to streamline business operations or improve sales. I will ask the doctor to advise me on the best treatment for my sore throat. |
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S+ advise + object + noun clause |
The doctors advised the public that people should have the vaccinations before going abroad. |
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The fifth type of sentence |
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S+ advise + object + infinitive |
Smoking is bad for your health. I'd advise you to quit smoking. We'd advise you to get vaccinated before you go abroad. |
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remind (the third, fourth, and fifth sentence verbs) |
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The third type of sentence |
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S+ remind + object |
She'll forget to call the doctor if you don't remind her. The mail just arrived. That reminds me, did you mail that letter I gave you yesterday? |
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The fourth type of sentence |
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S+ remind + object + about + thing |
Could you remind Paul about dinner on Saturday? |
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S+ remind + object + noun clause |
I called Jane and reminded her (that) the conference had been canceled. |
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S+ remind + object + of + thing |
This song reminds me of my high school days. |
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The fifth type of sentence |
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S+ remind + object+ infinitive |
We would like to remind all our guests to leave their keys at reception before they depart. The flight attendants remind passengers to take all their personal belongings with them when they leave the plane. Remind me to buy some groceries after work. |
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persuade (third, fourth, fifth sentence verbs) |
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The third type of sentence |
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S+ persuade +object |
If she doesn't want to go, nothing you can say will persuade her. |
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The fourth type of sentence |
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S+ persuade +object + of + thing |
The first priority is to persuade the management of the urgency of this matter. |
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S+ persuade + object+ noun clause |
They managed to persuade us that we needed to do business with them. |
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The fifth type of sentence |
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S+ persuade + object+ infinitive |
Our sales team is working hard to persuade foreign companies to purchase our latest HR software. |
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convince (fourth and fifth sentence verbs) |
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The fourth type of sentence |
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S+ convince + object+ of + thing |
It is hard to convince the committee of the advantages of the new scheme. |
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S+ convince + object+ noun clause |
Agricultural companies have failed to convince consumers that GM foods are safe. |
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The fifth type of sentence pattern |
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S+ convince + object + infinitive |
I've been trying to convince my dad to see a doctor. |
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provide (the third and fourth types of sentence verbs) |
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The third type of sentence |
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S + provide + something |
This booklet provides useful information about local services. |
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The fourth type of sentence |
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S+ provide + something provided + for + object provided |
We have concerns about whether the government will be able to provide viable social services for poorer families. |
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S+ provide + object provided + with + something provided |
We have concerns about whether the government will be able to provide poorer families with viable social services. |
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重點整理 |
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在英文第四大句型中，動詞後面需要接兩個受詞，句意才會完整，通常一個受詞為人，另外一個受詞為事物。兩個受詞之間也常常會有一個介系詞。 |
I offer him a job.
我給他一份工作。
He told me a story.。
他跟我說了一個故事
I send her an email = I send an email to her.
我寄一封電子郵件給她。
The principal granted the students an awards.= The principal granted awards to the students.
校長為學生頒獎。
He borrowed 1000 dollars from me.
他跟我借1000元。
He owed me 1000 dollars.
他欠我1000元。
I lend him 1000 dollars. = I lend 1000 dollars to him.
我借他100元。
I will buy you a drink.
我請你喝飲料。
I wish you a happy birthday.
我祝福你生日快樂。
The trip to Europe will cost us over $4000 USD for just a week.
僅一周的歐洲之旅將花費我們超過 4000 美元。
The bank charges me services fees every time I transfer money to another account.
每次我向另一個賬戶轉賬時，銀行都會向我收取服務費。
They'll provide you with room and board. = They 'll provide room and board for you.
他們會提供你吃住。
This song reminds me of my high school days.
這首歌讓我想起我的高中歲月。
Newcastle Council have informed us of a series of road closures.
纽卡斯尔市政厅已通知我们会有多条道路封路。
Fortune Investments notified its shareholders of the proposed merger and acquisition.
Fortune Investments 將擬議的併購跟收購案通知了其股東。
I will ask the doctor to advise me on the best treatment for my sore throat.
我會請醫生就我喉嚨痛的最佳治療方法提出建議。
受詞除了以名詞形式出現外，也可以「名詞子句」形式出現。
Can you tell me how to get to the library?
請問去圖書館怎麼走？
I called Jane and reminded her (that) the conference had been canceled.
我給簡打電話提醒她會議已經取消了。
The company notified me that I didn't get the job.
公司通知我沒有得到這份工作。
The boss informed Jane that she would be promoted next month.
老闆通知Jane她將在下個月被升遷。
The doctors advised the public that people should have the vaccinations before going abroad.
醫生建議民眾在出國前接種疫苗。
多益例題：OPH Corporation _________ every employee an opportunity for promotion and pay raise on a yearly basis.
(A) offered
(B) provided
(C) decided
(D) charged
此題選項(A) offered (提供) (第四大句型動詞) 是正確答案，很多考生會選(B) provide「提供」，但 provide 是用於第3大句型，後面不能接兩個受詞，需搭配介係詞使用：OPH Corporation provided every employee with an opportunity…，選項(C) decide也是第三大句型動詞，所以後面不會接兩個受詞。選項(D) charge雖然是第四大句型動詞，但不會說 charge 員工機會，而會說 charge 員工多少錢。
翻譯：OPH公司每年都提供每位員工升遷加薪的機會。
單字解釋：選項(C) decided「決定」--- He decided to study abroad.(他決定出國)；(D) charged「收費」--- They charge me $200.(他們向我收費200元)
多益例題：Mr. Brown will ___ the purchasing department an estimate as soon as he finishes editing the final version.
(A) reply
(B) wait
(C) send
(D) provide
此題選項(C) send是正確答案，用法: send + 對象 + 物品。如要選選項(D) provide，題目須改成 Mr. Brown will ___ the purchasing department with an estimate。選項(A)跟(B)都為第三大句型動詞。
翻譯：布朗先生將在完成最終版本的編輯後立即向採購部門發送一份估價單。
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重點整理 |
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在英文第五大句型中，動詞後面需要接一個受詞，受詞之後需要接一個受詞補語來形容受詞，受詞補語最簡單的形式就是形容詞，但也可以是動名詞、不定詞、過去分詞、或是原形動詞，下面直接給大家不同類型的例句。
I found this book interesting.
My boss asked me to work overtime.
I saw him running.
I will have my friend pick you up. 這四個句子中，在受詞後面都有接一個受詞補語來描述受詞，比如說第四句 I will have my friend pick you up，受詞是 my friend，pick you up (去載你) 是受詞 my friend 的動作，不是主詞 I 的動作 ，所以稱作受詞補語。那同學可能會問哪些受詞後面要接動名詞、不定詞、過去分詞、原形動詞，這取決於受詞前的動詞種類。 |
▶️ keep、find、leave + 受詞 + 形容詞/現在分詞 (動名詞)/過去分詞
I like to keep my room clean.
我喜歡讓我房間保持整潔。
Please leave me alone.
請讓我一個人獨處。
I find it difficult to talk to Lawrence.
我發現很難和勞倫斯交談。
The noise from their party kept me awake half the night.
他們派對傳來的吵鬧聲使我半夜都不能入睡。
當受詞的動作有「正在進行」的意思，用現在分詞 (動名詞)，如果受詞是「被動」做後面的動作，要用過去分詞。
I am sorry to keep you waiting.
很抱歉讓您久等了。
👉 句子中的受詞是 you，you處在正在等待的狀態，所以用現在分詞 waiting。
We will keep you posted/updated.
我會隨時告訴你進展的。
👉 句子中的受詞是 you，you處在隨時被告知的狀態，所以用過去分詞 posted/updated。
更多例句:
Don't leave the water running while you are brushing your teeth.
刷牙時不要讓水流著。
I left the children watching television.
我走的時候，孩子們仍在看電視。
We need to keep our current assembly line running as our production is running a bit behind now.
我們需要保持我們目前的裝配線運轉，因為我們的生產現在有點進度落後。
Please keep all staff informed about any scheduling changes to the upcoming conference.
請告知所有員工即將舉行的會議的任何日程安排變化。
▶️ 感官動詞 see、notice、hear、smell、catch + 受詞 + 動名詞/原形動詞
若是在感官動詞後面的受詞加上現在分詞的話，強調的是「動作的當下、連續性」。
I saw them cooking and smelled something burning.
我看到他們在做飯，還聞到了燒焦的味道。
The teacher noticed Jack cheating in the exam.
老師注意到Jack考試作弊。
I caught your boyfriend cheating on you.
我抓到你男朋友在偷吃。
David heard someone knocking on the door.
David聽到有人在敲門。
若是在感官動詞後面的受詞加上原形動詞的話，強調的是「整件事實、動作的整個過程」。
I see the bus #15 drive past my house every day.
我每天都看到15號公車開過我的家。
👉 表示看到的是公車經過的「整個過程」。
I saw him go out with his ex yesterday.
我看到他和他的前任昨天出去了。
▶️ help + 受詞 + 原型動詞(或接不定詞)
Can you help me (to) carry this bag?
你可以幫我提這個袋子嗎?
The $10, 000 loan from the bank helped her (to) start her own business.
10000英鎊的銀行貸款幫助她創辦了自己的公司。
Exercising every day can help you (to) relieve work-related stress.
每天運動可以幫助您減輕與工作壓力。
▶️ 使役動詞 make、 let、have + 受詞 + 原形動詞
▶️ 使役動詞 get + 受詞 + 不定詞
使役動詞make、let、have後面的受詞要接原形動詞，get後面接不定詞，這個規則的前提為：受詞「主動」做後面的動作。
He decided to let his hair grow long.
他決定把頭髮留起來。
Let me know what you decide.
讓我知道你的決定。
I usually have my assistant run the errand.
我通常請我助理去跑差事。
My boss made me work night shift last month.
我老闆上個月要我值晚斑。
What made you change your mind?
甚麼使你改變了想法？
get 雖然列在使役動詞之中，但特別的是 get 的後面要加的是「不定詞」，也就是「to +原V」。
I will get Jessie to pick up the parcel for me.
我會讓傑西幫我取包裹。
I can't get my computer to work!
我無法讓我的電腦正常使用！
👉 口語上，這句話也可以說 「I can't get my computer working!」 ，「get something to work/working (讓某個物品正常使用)」 都是正確的用法。
▶️ 使役動詞 make、have 、get + 受詞 + 過去分詞
▶️ 使役動詞 let + 受詞 + be + 過去分詞
剛剛我們學到使役動詞後面的受詞要接原形動詞或是不定詞，這個規則的前提為：受詞「主動」做後面的動作，如果受詞是「被動」做後面的動作，使役動詞後面要用過去分詞。
I had my hair cut. She has her hair permed.
我使我的頭髮被剪 → 我叫人剪了我的頭髮。 她使她的頭髮被燙 → 她叫人燙了她的頭髮。
I had my homework done, my room cleaned, and my computer fixed.
我完成了作業，打掃了房間，修好了電腦。
I got my bag caught in the train doors as they were closing.
火車關門時，我的袋子給卡在了門縫裡。
I'm trying to get this article finished/done by Friday.
我正在努力趕這篇文章，好在星期五交。
I had to yell to make myself heard above the sound of the music at the nightclub.
我不得不大喊大叫，讓自己的聲音蓋過夜總會的音樂聲。
I can make myself understood in Japanese, but I'm not fluent in Japanese.
我可以用日語表達自己的意思，但我日語不流利。
We can't let the news be released.
我們不能讓消息外洩。
▶️ 想要類動詞 want、need、expect、would like + 受詞 + 不定詞
Our CEO wants us to reorganize the publicity department.
我們的企業執行長希望我們重組宣傳部門。
We need a few of our employees to work night shifts.
我們需要一些員工上夜班。
I expect you to work harder.
我期待你可以工作認真點。
I would like you to be in charge of this project.
我希望你負責這個項目。
▶️ 迫使與要求類動詞 request、require、force + 受詞 + 不定詞
Most hotels request hotel guests to vacate their rooms by noon.
大多數旅館要求旅館客人在中午之前把房間清空。
The law requires everyone to pa y the tax.
法律要求每個人都繳納稅款。
Our company forces us to work overtime without giving us overtime pay.
我們公司強迫我們加班，卻不給我們加班費。
▶️ enable (使..能夠 )、allow (使..能夠 )、cause (造成) + 受詞 + 不定詞
Mass layoffs caused the unemployment rate to surge.
大規模裁員導致大流行的前兩個月失業率飆升。
The loophole has allowed hundreds of drink-drivers to avoid prosecution.
這個法律漏洞讓數以百計的酒後駕車者鑽了空子，逃避了起訴。
Outsourcing manufacturing to overseas companies will enable us to cut our production costs to half.
將製造外包給海外公司將使我們的生產成本降低一半。
▶️ 允許跟禁止類動詞 permit、authorize、forbid + 受詞 + 不定詞
The security system will not permit you to enter the entrance without the correct password.
密碼不正確的話，保全系統是不會讓你進入門口的。
The government has authorized the central hospital to offer vaccination to all eligible patients.
政府已授權中央醫院為所有符合條件的患者提供疫苗接種。
Professor Darcy forbids his students to use cell phones during the exam.
達西教授禁止他的學生在考試期間使用手機。
▶️ tell、remind、advise、encourage、persuade + 受詞 + 不定詞
I told her to go home.
我叫她回家。
The professor reminds us to hand in assignment on time.
教授提醒我們要準時繳交作業。
My professor encourages me to apply to Stanford University.
我的教授鼓勵我去申請史丹佛大學。
We would advise you to get vaccinated before you go abroad.
我們建議您在出國前接種疫苗。
Our sales team is working hard to persuade foreign companies to purchase our latest HR software.
我們的銷售團隊正在努力說服外國公司購買我們最新的人力資源軟件。
▶️ 動詞 + 受詞 + to + 動名詞
He dedicated his life to freeing the world from famine and disease.
他畢生致力於使世界擺脫飢荒和疾病。
多益例題：It is essential that we try harder to improve customer satisfaction levels and keep our company more ______________.
(A) competitive
(B) competitively
(C) compete
(D) competition
此題選項(A) competitive (有競爭力的) (形容詞) 是正確答案，這題考了第五大句型的的文法：動詞 keep + 受詞 + 形容詞，形容詞competitive 用來補充說明前面的受詞 our company。
若選副詞(B) competitively，句意會變為「有競爭力地去維持公司」，因此刪除。
而選項(C) compete 是動詞，more 後面不會加動詞。
選項(D) competition 比賽是名詞，句意會變為「維持公司更多競賽」，所以都刪除。
翻譯：我們盡力嘗試去改善客戶滿意度並且讓公司維持更有競爭力的是非常重要的。
多益例題：Business advisors usually ____ small-scale businesses to find a niche in their target market that has no serious competition.
(A) notify
(B) advise
(C) assure
(D) inform
此題選項(B) advise是正確答案。用法: advise+ 對象 + to 原型動詞。其他動詞選項沒有此種用法。
翻譯：商業顧問通常會建議小型企業在目標市場中尋找沒有激烈競爭的利基市場。
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重點整理 |
|
在英文第五大句型中，動詞後面需要接一個受詞，受詞之後需要接一個受詞補語來形容受詞，受詞補語最簡單的形式就是形容詞，但也可以是動名詞、不定詞、過去分詞、或是原形動詞，下面直接給大家不同類型的例句。
I found this book interesting.
My boss asked me to work overtime.
I saw him running.
I will have my friend pick you up. 這四個句子中，在受詞後面都有接一個受詞補語來描述受詞，比如說第四句 I will have my friend pick you up，受詞是 my friend，pick you up (去載你) 是受詞 my friend 的動作，不是主詞 I 的動作 ，所以稱作受詞補語。那同學可能會問哪些受詞後面要接動名詞、不定詞、過去分詞、原形動詞，這取決於受詞前的動詞種類。 |
▶️ keep、find、leave + 受詞 + 形容詞/現在分詞 (動名詞)/過去分詞
I like to keep my room clean.
我喜歡讓我房間保持整潔。
Please leave me alone.
請讓我一個人獨處。
I find it difficult to talk to Lawrence.
我發現很難和勞倫斯交談。
The noise from their party kept me awake half the night.
他們派對傳來的吵鬧聲使我半夜都不能入睡。
當受詞的動作有「正在進行」的意思，用現在分詞 (動名詞)，如果受詞是「被動」做後面的動作，要用過去分詞。
I am sorry to keep you waiting.
很抱歉讓您久等了。
👉 句子中的受詞是 you，you處在正在等待的狀態，所以用現在分詞 waiting。
We will keep you posted/updated.
我會隨時告訴你進展的。
👉 句子中的受詞是 you，you處在隨時被告知的狀態，所以用過去分詞 posted/updated。
更多例句:
Don't leave the water running while you are brushing your teeth.
刷牙時不要讓水流著。
I left the children watching television.
我走的時候，孩子們仍在看電視。
We need to keep our current assembly line running as our production is running a bit behind now.
我們需要保持我們目前的裝配線運轉，因為我們的生產現在有點進度落後。
Please keep all staff informed about any scheduling changes to the upcoming conference.
請告知所有員工即將舉行的會議的任何日程安排變化。
▶️ 感官動詞 see、notice、hear、smell、catch + 受詞 + 動名詞/原形動詞
若是在感官動詞後面的受詞加上現在分詞的話，強調的是「動作的當下、連續性」。
I saw them cooking and smelled something burning.
我看到他們在做飯，還聞到了燒焦的味道。
The teacher noticed Jack cheating in the exam.
老師注意到Jack考試作弊。
I caught your boyfriend cheating on you.
我抓到你男朋友在偷吃。
David heard someone knocking on the door.
David聽到有人在敲門。
若是在感官動詞後面的受詞加上原形動詞的話，強調的是「整件事實、動作的整個過程」。
I see the bus #15 drive past my house every day.
我每天都看到15號公車開過我的家。
👉 表示看到的是公車經過的「整個過程」。
I saw him go out with his ex yesterday.
我看到他和他的前任昨天出去了。
▶️ help + 受詞 + 原型動詞(或接不定詞)
Can you help me (to) carry this bag?
你可以幫我提這個袋子嗎?
The $10, 000 loan from the bank helped her (to) start her own business.
10000英鎊的銀行貸款幫助她創辦了自己的公司。
Exercising every day can help you (to) relieve work-related stress.
每天運動可以幫助您減輕與工作壓力。
▶️ 使役動詞 make、 let、have + 受詞 + 原形動詞
▶️ 使役動詞 get + 受詞 + 不定詞
使役動詞make、let、have後面的受詞要接原形動詞，get後面接不定詞，這個規則的前提為：受詞「主動」做後面的動作。
He decided to let his hair grow long.
他決定把頭髮留起來。
Let me know what you decide.
讓我知道你的決定。
I usually have my assistant run the errand.
我通常請我助理去跑差事。
My boss made me work night shift last month.
我老闆上個月要我值晚斑。
What made you change your mind?
甚麼使你改變了想法？
get 雖然列在使役動詞之中，但特別的是 get 的後面要加的是「不定詞」，也就是「to +原V」。
I will get Jessie to pick up the parcel for me.
我會讓傑西幫我取包裹。
I can't get my computer to work!
我無法讓我的電腦正常使用！
👉 口語上，這句話也可以說 「I can't get my computer working!」 ，「get something to work/working (讓某個物品正常使用)」 都是正確的用法。
▶️ 使役動詞 make、have 、get + 受詞 + 過去分詞
▶️ 使役動詞 let + 受詞 + be + 過去分詞
剛剛我們學到使役動詞後面的受詞要接原形動詞或是不定詞，這個規則的前提為：受詞「主動」做後面的動作，如果受詞是「被動」做後面的動作，使役動詞後面要用過去分詞。
I had my hair cut. She has her hair permed.
我使我的頭髮被剪 → 我叫人剪了我的頭髮。 她使她的頭髮被燙 → 她叫人燙了她的頭髮。
I had my homework done, my room cleaned, and my computer fixed.
我完成了作業，打掃了房間，修好了電腦。
I got my bag caught in the train doors as they were closing.
火車關門時，我的袋子給卡在了門縫裡。
I'm trying to get this article finished/done by Friday.
我正在努力趕這篇文章，好在星期五交。
I had to yell to make myself heard above the sound of the music at the nightclub.
我不得不大喊大叫，讓自己的聲音蓋過夜總會的音樂聲。
I can make myself understood in Japanese, but I'm not fluent in Japanese.
我可以用日語表達自己的意思，但我日語不流利。
We can't let the news be released.
我們不能讓消息外洩。
▶️ 想要類動詞 want、need、expect、would like + 受詞 + 不定詞
Our CEO wants us to reorganize the publicity department.
我們的企業執行長希望我們重組宣傳部門。
We need a few of our employees to work night shifts.
我們需要一些員工上夜班。
I expect you to work harder.
我期待你可以工作認真點。
I would like you to be in charge of this project.
我希望你負責這個項目。
▶️ 迫使與要求類動詞 request、require、force + 受詞 + 不定詞
Most hotels request hotel guests to vacate their rooms by noon.
大多數旅館要求旅館客人在中午之前把房間清空。
The law requires everyone to pa y the tax.
法律要求每個人都繳納稅款。
Our company forces us to work overtime without giving us overtime pay.
我們公司強迫我們加班，卻不給我們加班費。
▶️ enable (使..能夠 )、allow (使..能夠 )、cause (造成) + 受詞 + 不定詞
Mass layoffs caused the unemployment rate to surge.
大規模裁員導致大流行的前兩個月失業率飆升。
The loophole has allowed hundreds of drink-drivers to avoid prosecution.
這個法律漏洞讓數以百計的酒後駕車者鑽了空子，逃避了起訴。
Outsourcing manufacturing to overseas companies will enable us to cut our production costs to half.
將製造外包給海外公司將使我們的生產成本降低一半。
▶️ 允許跟禁止類動詞 permit、authorize、forbid + 受詞 + 不定詞
The security system will not permit you to enter the entrance without the correct password.
密碼不正確的話，保全系統是不會讓你進入門口的。
The government has authorized the central hospital to offer vaccination to all eligible patients.
政府已授權中央醫院為所有符合條件的患者提供疫苗接種。
Professor Darcy forbids his students to use cell phones during the exam.
達西教授禁止他的學生在考試期間使用手機。
▶️ tell、remind、advise、encourage、persuade + 受詞 + 不定詞
I told her to go home.
我叫她回家。
The professor reminds us to hand in assignment on time.
教授提醒我們要準時繳交作業。
My professor encourages me to apply to Stanford University.
我的教授鼓勵我去申請史丹佛大學。
We would advise you to get vaccinated before you go abroad.
我們建議您在出國前接種疫苗。
Our sales team is working hard to persuade foreign companies to purchase our latest HR software.
我們的銷售團隊正在努力說服外國公司購買我們最新的人力資源軟件。
▶️ 動詞 + 受詞 + to + 動名詞
He dedicated his life to freeing the world from famine and disease.
他畢生致力於使世界擺脫飢荒和疾病。
多益例題：It is essential that we try harder to improve customer satisfaction levels and keep our company more ______________.
(A) competitive
(B) competitively
(C) compete
(D) competition
此題選項(A) competitive (有競爭力的) (形容詞) 是正確答案，這題考了第五大句型的的文法：動詞 keep + 受詞 + 形容詞，形容詞competitive 用來補充說明前面的受詞 our company。
若選副詞(B) competitively，句意會變為「有競爭力地去維持公司」，因此刪除。
而選項(C) compete 是動詞，more 後面不會加動詞。
選項(D) competition 比賽是名詞，句意會變為「維持公司更多競賽」，所以都刪除。
翻譯：我們盡力嘗試去改善客戶滿意度並且讓公司維持更有競爭力的是非常重要的。
多益例題：Business advisors usually ____ small-scale businesses to find a niche in their target market that has no serious competition.
(A) notify
(B) advise
(C) assure
(D) inform
此題選項(B) advise是正確答案。用法: advise+ 對象 + to 原型動詞。其他動詞選項沒有此種用法。
翻譯：商業顧問通常會建議小型企業在目標市場中尋找沒有激烈競爭的利基市場。