Stop doing and Stop to do (gerunds and infinitives)

Students often mistake these two forms. It’s a problem because they mean different things.

‘Stop’ is a special verb in English because we can follow it with either a gerund (ing form) or an infinitive. So stop to do and stop doing are both possible. However, the meaning changes. Watch the video and learn how the two forms are different.

Watch videos about some other verbs that can be followed by gerunds and infinitives. Learn how their meanings change.
used to do – be used to doing
try to do – try doing
Click here to watch more grammar videos

Stop doing and Stop to do video script

Hello.
Oh. Hey Vicki. I can’t stop to talk to you now.

After the verb ‘stop’, we can use an infinitive form or a gerund. But watch out because the meaning is different.

Do you want a cup of tea?
Ooo yes please.
I’ll be right back.

When we stop doing something we don’t do it any more. When we stop to do something, we stop doing something in order to do something else.

Can you two stop playing that game and come and help us with a delivery?
Yeah.
I got forty points.

Hmm. I’ve got a question. I’ll skype Jamie. Jamie. Jamie.
Hey Vicki, I can’t stop dancing.
I can see. I’ve just got a quick question. Just a quick one? Not to worry. I’ll ask Mr Marcus.

Hello. Hello.
Ah. Hey Vicki. I can’t stop to talk to you now.
These knives are sharp.
Oh, be careful. Be careful. Argh!
Don’t worry. I’ll google it instead.

Watch videos about some other verbs that can be followed by gerunds and infinitives. Learn how their meanings change.
used to do – be used to doing
try to do – try doing
Click here to watch more grammar videos