It is imperative that when two verbs are used together, the correct verb is used for the second verb. As there are no rules that can be turned to, below are some examples which with practise can help students to remember. The key to remember is that the from of the second verb depends on the first:
verb + ‘to infinitive’
They will hesitate to accept the offer because there are no others on the table.
It was not the intention of of the parties to fail to reach an agreement Your Honour.
They plan to make a counter offer by the end of the week.
other verbs that precede ‘to infinitive’ include
decide, hope, offer, refuse…
verb + ‘ing form’
It is really in their interest to consider withdrawing the counterclaim
The prosecution have been speaking for over 30 minutes, they should finish delivering their opening statement
The evidence is compelling. You client should admit taking his parent’s car without their permission and save a 3 day trial.
other verbs that precede ‘+ ing form’ include
avoid, risk, suggest, understand….
verb + ‘bare infinitive’
When verbs do not include ‘to’, they are referred to as the bare infinitive. Certain verbs can only be followed by the bare infinitive:
We would appreciate your attention on this matter as a matter of urgency.
They should be hearing from the shareholders by the end of business today.
She must agree to sell considering the punitive financial situation.
other verbs that precede the bare infinitive include
may, shall, will….
verb + object + preposition + (verb+ing or noun)
Before you accuse someone of manipulating sales figures, you had better collate your evidence first.
Please could provide our client with your share certificate as a matter of urgency.
They asked me to explain the due diligence process to the board.
____
What have you prevented?
What have you sought to postpone?
What offer have you received?
How should counsel prepare before the first meeting?
____
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