Preposition + -ing
Definition
When a verb follows a preposition, it normally takes the -ing form: after leaving, without asking, by working, interested in learning. The -ing form functions as the complement of the preposition.
Examples
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She left without saying goodbye.
The verb after without uses the -ing form.
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You can improve by practising regularly.
By + -ing explains the method.
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Maya is interested in learning Arabic.
The preposition in is followed by the -ing form.
Infinitive to vs. prepositional to
I hope to see you soon.
To introduces the base-form infinitive.
I look forward to seeing you soon.
To belongs to look forward to, so it is followed by seeing.
When to is an infinitive marker, use the base verb. When to is a preposition, use a noun phrase or -ing form.
The subject of the -ing form may be stated
A possessive determiner or object-form pronoun can identify who performs the action. Formal styles often prefer the possessive form.
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We objected to their changing the schedule.
Their identifies the people who changed the schedule.
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There is no chance of us finishing today.
The object-form pronoun is common in ordinary usage.
Common mistakes
She left without say goodbye.
She left without saying goodbye.
Use an -ing form after a preposition.
I look forward to see you.
I look forward to seeing you.
In look forward to, to is a preposition.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly follows a preposition with -ing?
A verb after without takes the -ing form.Which sentence correctly uses prepositional to?
In be used to, to is a preposition and is followed by working.Which phrase explains a method?
By + -ing commonly expresses method.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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