The Advanced Grammar Book - Jocelyn Steer, Karen Carlisi 1998

Chapter 14 Age Is a State of Mind

• Gerunds and Infinitives

Age Is a State of Mind (You’re As Young As You Feel)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. How do you feel about aging? Do you agree with the expression “age is a state of mind”? At what age will you be “old”?

2. How do you imagine yourself at 60 or 70? What kind of life do you hope to be living?

3. What do people in your native culture do to look and feel younger?

Objectives

In this chapter, you will learn:

1. To use an infinitive or a gerund as subject of a sentence

2. To use an infinitive or a gerund as the direct object of certain verbs

3. To use a gerund as the object of a preposition

4. To use an infinitive or a gerund as complement of the verb to bе

5. To use an infinitive as the complement of certain adjectives

6. To use the past, passive, and past passive forms of infinitives and gerunds

7. To use infinitive phrases as replacements for adverb, adjective, and noun clauses.

Preview

DIRECTIONS: Deepak Chopra is the author of Ageless Body Timeless Mind, a book about how to live a long, healthy life. The letter below was written to him by a college student who is studying to be a doctor.

Dear Dr. Chopra:

1 I read your book recently, and I just wanted to thank you for the work you’ve done on the relationship between belief and biology. As a medical student and future doctor, it really helped me to understand how the mind affects the body. Mow I know how some people can become centenarians.

2 I’m really proud to have a 100-year-old. great-grandmother who hasn’t read your book but refuses to let age get in the way of life. She is very young at heart. She has such an active, rewarding life that it seems wrong even to call her old. She still has her garden and her birds, and she always knows what’s happening in the world. I especially think it’s coo5 that she still has parties with her friends to have fun. To have her energy and spirit for life is an example of your philosophy in action.

3 I hope to be an active, fun-loving senior citizen like her when I reach her age. Some of my friends say it’s difficult to think about old age because it depresses them. They

imagine that anyone over the age of 60 must live in a nursing home, helpless and lonely. I think they need to read your book and understand that getting old doesn’t have to be depressing at all.

4 For many people, aging can be difficult, and they are really afraid of old age. Their mistake is thinking that at a certain age they will be too old to be happy. Like you, my philosophy is that the way we think is what really counts. We have the potential to influence our bodies through our minds.

5 I’m following a course of study that will integrate Eastern and Western medicine. That way as a doctor I can help people to understand the influence of their minds on the aging, process.

6 Well, Dr. Chopra, I just wanted to let you know that your book has really influenced me in a very positive way. I am very interested in attending one of your workshops and meeting you someday.

Sincerely,

Derek James

VOCABULARY

centenarian: a person who has reached the age of 100 young at heart: to have a young attitude regardless of one’s age

cool: a slang expression, especially popular among young people, which is used to express approval of something

senior citizen: an elderly person

nursing home: a place where sick or handicapped elderly people, who are incapable of living on their own, are given medical care and supervision

count: to have value, to be important

CULTURAL NOTE/DISCUSSION

It is common in the United States for senior citizens to remain active for many years beyond retirement age. Many decide to continue working either at a paying job or in volunteer work. There are opportunities for seniors to stay physically and socially active as well. For example, many health clubs have special classes for seniors, such as water aerobics. There are also senior citizen centers where people can meet informally or attend special events such as dances or card parties. Some seniors even go back to school at adult education centers to study something, they never had time for before retirement. Do senior citizens in your native country have these kinds of opportunities? What is the society’s attitude about lifestyle after retirement?

Focus ON GRAMMAR

The following questions are based on the preview text and are designed to help you find out what you already know about the structures in this chapter. Some of the questions may be hard and some of them may be easy. Answer as many of the questions as you can. Work with a partner if your teacher tells you to do so.

1. a. In this example from the preview, which of the following verbs could take the place of hope? (want, appreciate, enjoy, promise, refuse) Write them on the line below the example: / hope to be an active, fun-loving senior citizen.

Did you use a rule to choose the verbs?

If you replace hope with one of the verbs you did not write on the line, what other change will you have to make?

b. Are the boldfaced words in the following two examples from the preview the same part of speech?

I hope to be an active, fun-loving senior citizen when I reach her age.

I’m really proud to have a 100-year-old great-grandmother.

Based on these examples, what part of speech would you conclude can be followed by an infinitive (to + verb)?

Can you think of any words to replace proud in the example above?

2. If you wanted to make it the subject of the sentence below, what words would it replace?

To have her energy and spirit for life is a gift.

Could having replace to have in this sentence?

3. Why is the gerund (-ing) form of attend used in the following sentence from the passage?

I am very interested in attending one of your workshops ...

Could you use an infinitive (to attend) in place of the gerund?

Grammatical Patterns Part One

I. Infinitives

An infinitive consists of to + verb and takes the place of a noun. An infinitive can have a variety of functions in a sentence.

A. Infinitive As Subject of the Sentence

The box below explains how an infinitive can be used as the subject of a sentence.

Grammatical Function

Subject of the sentence

• To age gracefully is difficult.

• It is difficult to age gracefully.

Notes

Using it as the subject of the sentence is much more common than using an infinitive.

The infinitive subject is more formal.

14.1 Oral Practice: Infinitive Subjects

DIRECTIONS: Below are some stereotypical ideas about getting old. State whether you agree or disagree with each statement, and in your response, instead of using an infinitive subject, use it as the subject. Provide a reason for your opinion.

Example

CUE: To be old is depressing.

RESPONSE: I disagree that it is depressing to be old. There are many happy senior citizens who live full, active lives.

1. To live an active life if you’re over 75 is impossible.

2. To get old is terrible.

3. To live in a retirement community must be boring.

4. To date when you’re over the age of 60 is uncommon.

5. To travel when you’re old is dangerous.

6. To learn a new language is impossible if you’re over 50.

7. To enjoy life as a senior citizen is difficult.

8. To be physically active at the age of 70 is unwise.

B. Infinitive As Direct Object

There are certain verbs that are followed by infinitives. Some of them are listed in the charts below along with some helpful hints for memorization. See the chapter appendix for a more complete list.

14.2 Written Exercise: Sentence Completion

DIRECTIONS: A seventeenth-century poet, George Herbert, said, “And now in old age, I bud again.” Think about how you would like to have a new life in old age and complete the following sentences by adding an infinitive and additional ideas.

Example

CUE: I need ...

RESPONSE: I need to stay active as long as I am able.

1. I hope

2. I expect

3. I intend

4. I plan

5. I refuse

6. I will arrange

7. I must prepare

8. I refuse

14.3 Oral Practice: Verbs Followed By a (Pro)noun + Infinitive

DIRECTIONS: Based on the cue provided, take turns with your partner asking and answering questions. Use the verb + pronoun + infinitive construction.

Example

CUE: friend/invite

QUESTION: Has a friend ever invited you to do something dangerous?

ANSWER: Yes, one time a friend invited me to go skydiving.

1. parents/advise

2. teacher/ask

3. friend/convince

4. government/encourage

5. policeman/order

6. doctor/warn

7. law/permit

8. salary/allow

9. company/hire

10. children/beg

14.4 Written Practice: Anti-Aging Advice

DIRECTIONS: Below is some advice that a doctor gave a group of people at a lecture on anti-aging. On the lines provided below the lecture, use the verb + (pro)noun + infinitive construction to restate what he told them. Use a variety of verbs from the box above.

... Summing up, in the fight to hold on to your precious youth, there are many steps that you can take to win the battle. First of all, you should take Vitamins A, C, and E so that body tissue is not so quickly damaged. By slowing down that process, you will increase your body’s ability to function. Also, live in a quiet environment so that you won’t suffer such drastic hearing loss. One of the most heartbreaking effects of old age is losing the ability to communicate. In addition, if you want to slow down the loss of vision, you’d better use brighter and more focused lighting when you read. Very important, don’t forget to maintain a calcium-rich diet so that you can prevent osteoporosis. If you are able to keep your bones strong, you will prevent painful breaks and fractures. Please limit your calorie intake, and your life span will increase significantly. It has been found that people who maintain their optimal weight live longer. Don’t smoke! You’re automatically cutting your time short if you do. You can exercise well into your eighties, and you will be a healthier 80-year-old as a result. Finally, most important, please keep a positive mental attitude, and I guarantee you’ll live longer.

Example

“Avoid caffeine and you will lessen the risk of heart problems.” (He warned them to avoid caffeine.)

1. ...

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

14.5 Recognition Exercise: Verbs That May Be Followed by a (Pro)noun + Infinitive

DIRECTIONS: For each of the following sentences, state who would be carrying out the action of the infinitive that is underlined.

Example

CUE: Paul wants his wife to learn English.

RESPONSE: Paul’s wife will learn English.

1. Children expect their grandparents to spoil them.

2. My teacher wants to write an autobiography.

3. Sally begged her mother to stop smoking.

4. Jamie asked his grandfather to buy him a bicycle.

5. My boss chose to give a speech at the company banquet.

6. Jimmy promised to stop lying.

7. Stan’s mother needs him to help with the project.

8. Jared dared Nathan to jump over the waterfall.

14.6 Written Exercise: Verb + Infinitive

DIRECTIONS: Your government is presently considering cutback of funding for programs, to support the elderly. Write a letter to a government representative to protest this decision. Explain why it is important to maintain federally funded programs for the elderly. Use at least ten verb + infinitive constructions in your letter. Underline the constructions.

II. Infinitive as Complement of an Adjective

An infinitive can be used as the complement of an adjective, which means that the infinitive adds to or completes the idea expressed in the adjective. The chart below lists some of the adjectives that can be followed by an infinitive complement. See the appendix at the end of the chapter for a more complete listing.

14.7 Written Practice: Adjectives Followed by Infinitives

In Deepak Chopra’s book mentioned in the preview of this chapter, he describes the seven traits of creative people. These traits ultimately influence the potential we have to counteract the negative effects of aging. Read each of the traits listed below. Then use an adjective + infinitive construction to write a paraphrase for each sentence. Use your own words rather than copy the words in the original sentence.

1. They are able to contact and enjoy silence.

They are content ...

2. They connect with and enjoy nature.

They are glad ...

3. They trust their feelings.

It is safe ...

4. They can remain centered and function amid confusion and chaos.

It is easy ...

5. They are childlike—they enjoy fantasy and play.

They are pleased ...

6. They self-refer: They place the highest trust in their own consciousness.

They are not afraid ...

7. They are not rigidly attached to any point of view: Although passionately committed to their creativity, they remain open to new possibilities.

They are eager ...

14.8 Oral Practice: Infinitive as Adjective Complement

DIRECTIONS: Discuss an elderly person, such as a grandparent, whom you have known and liked all your life. Use adjectives from the chart to describe the person.

Example

I have always been proud to have such a fun-loving, active grandmother.

14.9 Rapid Drill: Too/Enough and Infinitives

DIRECTIONS: Change the following sentences so that you are using too or enough and an infinitive. For each sentence make a positive and a negative statement.

Example

Nathan can’t start preschool yet, because he’s only two years old.

POSITIVE: Nathan is not old enough to start preschool.

NEGATIVE: Nathan is too young to start preschool.

1. Rafael can’t compete in the Olympics because he’s 50 years old.

2. Susan can’t buy beer in California because she’s only 17 years old.

3. Cherie is 78 years old and still gets jobs playing the piano.

4. Richard will be able to vote in the 1992 U.S. presidential election because he’ll be 18 years old.

5. If necessary, Dan could be drafted because he’s 18 years old.

6. Mary is 38 and she’s pregnant.

7. Sangadji can’t study English in this intensive program because he’s only 12 years old.

8. Cindy is 40 years old, and she would never date a 23-year-old man.

9. Anthony can’t stay home alone because he’s only 10 years old.

10. Jenna is 13, and you have to be under 12 to get a discount.

III. Gerunds

A gerund consists of verb + -ing and also takes the place of a noun. Like infinitives, gerunds can serve a variety of functions in a sentence.

A. Gerund As Subject of the Sentence

Below are examples of how a gerund can be the subject of the sentence.

14.10 Rapid Drill: Gerund Subjects

DIRECTIONS: Derek’s grandmother is 78 years old. Like her mother, she is fairly active. In each pair of sentences below, there is a statement about her activity and a statement describing the effect of the activity. Combine the pairs of sentences into one sentence with a gerund subject.

Example

She gardens every day. This makes her feel useful.

Gardening makes her feel useful.

1. She has parties with her friends. This makes her feel young.

2.She takes long walks. This helps her to stay in shape.

3. She participates in a theater group and plays the piano on weekends. These activities add to her income.

4. She writes letters to friends in other countries. This keeps her in touch with the world.

5. She visits her grandchildren and plays with them. This is exciting for her.

6. She watches the news on television every day. This keeps her up to date with current events.

7. She takes classes at the community center. This helps her to learn new skills.

8. She cooks for her family. This is rewarding to her.

14.11 Written Practice: Possessives in Subject Gerund Phrases

DIRECTIONS: Answer all of the following questions with a subject containing a possessive (pro)noun in a gerund phrase. Use a noun, pronoun, or the name of the person.

Example

QUESTION: What impresses you about one of your grandparents?

RESPONSE: My grandfather’s playing golf at the age of 80 impresses me.

1. What surprises you about a friend that you have?

2. What is something your teacher does that helps you to learn?

3. What is something your boyfriend/girlfriend/husband/wife does that annoys you?

4. What is something a child does that amuses you?

5. What is something your government does that makes you angry?

6. What is something that disappoints you about a school you attended?

14.12 Paired Oral Practice: Famous Sayings

DIRECTIONS: Working in pairs, Student A should look only at the section below labeled Student A. Student В should look at the section labeled Student B. Student A has several explanations for famous sayings that contain infinitives or gerunds as the subject of the sentence. Student В has the list of famous sayings. When Student A reads the explanation, Student В should try to find the famous saying that matches the explanation. Once you have made the match, discuss whether you agree with the saying.

Example

EXPLANATION: I would rather suffer from a relationship that is over than not have had that relationship at all.

SAYING: It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

STUDENT A: EXPLANATIONS

1. It is perfectly natural to make a mistake, but it requires special effort and understanding to accept an apology for a mistake.

2. The best way to acquire skills or knowledge is through experience.

3. The more I find out about something, the better I will be able to comprehend it.

4. It's difficult to accept a theory without any physical evidence.

STUDENT A: SAYINGS

1. Seeing is believing.

2. To err is human, to forgive—divine.

3. To know is to understand.

4. Learning is doing.

14.13 Written Practice: Famous Slogans

DIRECTIONS: Below are some popular American slogans that encourage people to “hang on” to their youth. Rewrite each saying in your own words using a gerund or infinitive subject.

Example

“Think Young!”

Keeping a fresh, optimistic outlook will keep you young.

1. “Act young!”

2. “Look young.

3. “Stay young.”

4. “You’re just as young as you feel.”

5. “Age is a state of mind.”

B. Gerund As Direct Object

A gerund can also serve as a direct object after certain verbs. The chart below lists some of these verbs and helpful hints for memorization. See the chapter appendix for a more complete list.

14.14 Written Paraphrase: Retirement Communities

DIRECTIONS: Following is some information about retirement communities. Read the passage. Then in the space provided below the passage, rewrite it using gerunds as direct objects after verbs. The first one is done for you as an example.

Many senior citizens do not feel bad if they have to live in a retirement community. At one retirement community in Ohio, residents feel good about their living situation because they can come and go as they like. They can live on their own in apartments, cottages, or

duplexes that are furnished with their personal belongings. About 40 percent of them drive their own cars because they don’t want to be dependent on others for transportation. When Charles Dilgard, the community’s chief executive, came to the community 20 years ago, he thought the residents didn’t have a sense of independence. He remembers that they were being given too much love and care. At the time, Dilgard said that the residents should have more autonomy. Dilgard also said the residents should be provided with more facilities.

Many senior citizens enjoy living in retirement communities.

14.15 Rapid Drill: Possessives In Direct Object Gerund Phrases

DIRECTIONS: Change each sentence so that the direct object is a verb + possessive + gerund construction.

Example

John wanted to give his report after the deadline, and the teacher accepted this.

The teacher accepted lohn’s turning in his report after the deadline since he had been sick.

1. My daughter, Carol, anticipated that I would take her to a movie.

2. She appreciated it when I invited her.

3. She suggested that we go to see a murder mystery.

4. I didn’t invite her boyfriend, Steve. Her boyfriend resented this.

5. My daughter understood why Steve was upset.

6. Perhaps he couldn’t appreciate the fact that a mother would want to spend some time alone with her daughter.

7. He disliked it that I excluded him.

8. I didn't mind it that Steve wanted to spend time with me.

9. I suggested that he join us next time.

10. In the end, he didn’t mind that Carol went without him.

14.16 Written Exercise

DIRECTIONS: For each situation described in the cue, write a sentence by using the verb provided in parentheses, a (pro)noun, and a gerund. Use a noun, pronoun, or a person’s name. Sometimes you will have to use the negative form of the verb.

Example

You are on your way to the airport to pick up your mother, and you think that she will arrive late.

(anticipate) I anticipate my mother’s arriving late.

1. Your officemate never cleans up his desk, and you don’t like it.

(dislike) ...

2. A friend always lies to you, and you are really upset.

(forgive)

3. You’ve been having a sleeping problem, and your mother said that you should see a doctor.

(recommend)

4. Your father always gives you lectures, and you are angry.

(appreciate)

5. Your grandmother wants to live alone, and you don’t think that it’s a good idea.

(advise)

6. Your company decided to prohibit smoking in the building, and you are a smoker.

(resent)

14.17 Written Exercise: Infinitive or Gerund As Direct Object?

DIRECTIONS: A plastic surgeon in Miami, Florida, has placed the following advertisement in the local newspaper, hoping to attract elderly people to his clinic for plastic surgery. Fill in the blanks with either the infinitive or gerund form of the verb in parentheses.

How About a Face Lift?

Do you need ... (get rid of) some of those unwanted wrinkles on your face? Do you dislike ... (find) new wrinkles every day? I bet you would appreciate ... (say) goodbye to those unnecessary age lines forever! If you intend(fight) ... the look of old age, I recommend ... (pay) me a visit for a face lift. We can arrange ... (make) you look 20 years younger in a few short hours. I promise ... (return) your youthful appearance to you. I strongly suggest ... (take) advantage of this opportunity now. I dare you ... (look) younger than you are! You won’t regret ... (place) your faith in my proven skills.

Call For An Appointment Today!

C. Gerund As Object of a Preposition

Any time a verb follows a preposition, the verb must be in gerund form. The chart below lists some common idiomatic expressions with prepositions that are always followed by gerunds.

^aSee the modals chapter for more information on be used to.

14.18 Written Exercise: “Who’s Who?”

DIRECTIONS: Read the following information about people who made significant accomplishments at a late age in life. Then for each sentence find a matching sentence from the sentences which follow. Fill in the blanks with the correct preposition and gerund form of the verb given. Write the person’s name on the line provided.

a. She was interested ... (paint) ... the beauty of the deserts, flowers, and mountains of the surrounding area.

WHO?

b. He insisted ... (find) ... peaceful means for the settlement of all matters of dispute between governments of the world.

WHO?

c. In his last years, the neighboring peasants were used ... (see) ... him walk in the fields speaking in a loud voice and using many gestures.

WHO?

d. She wasn’t afraid ... (travel) ... great distances to continue her involvement in public activities.

WHO?

14.19 Written Exercise: The Fountain of Youth

DIRECTIONS: Try to imagine what it would be like if we could drink from a fountain of youth so that we would never age. Using one expression from each group in the chart beginning on page 362, write six consequences of drinking from the fountain of youth.

Example

People wouldn’t be preoccupied with getting old and losing their youthful appearance.

1. ...

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

GrammaticaI Patterns Part Two

Preview

DIRECTIONS: Read the following report that describes the characteristics of centenarians.

Centenarians: The Secrets of A Long Life

1 There are an estimated 25,000 centenarians in the United States, and their numbers are rapidly increasing. To better understand what promotes longevity, the lives of centenarians and their personal characteristics needs to be closely examined. We are very interested in discovering what kind of lifestyle and particularly what kind of personality determines longevity.

2 Although we may anticipate being told that there are uniform traits among centenarians, this is not true. It was originally thought that centenarians must be calm, serene, Type В personalities, with stress-free lives. However, there are centenarians who thrive on living fast-paced, high tension lives. As far as- physical characteristics are concerned, very few claim to have been obese at any time in their lives. Hany admit to having been social drinkers throughout their lives, and many like to drink coffee. Centenarians have a wide range of nutritional habits—some are vegetarians, but most eat. meat. Host of them eat just about everything.

3 There are a few shared traits among centenarians, one of them being a genetic propensity toward long life; most centenarians have long-living forebears. They also share a sense of altruism. Host feel fortunate to have been blessed with prosperity and good health and have given help to people who aren’t as fortunate. Host centenarians also have a basic love of life. They know how to treasure each day and they enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Centenarians can be party-givers, gardeners, or intellectuals. Hany appreciate never having been robbed of their appetite for learning, so they are the kind of people who look for people, experiences, and opportunities that will teach them something. Hany of them spend a lot of time reading to satisfy this appetite for learning. You won’t find many centenarians who are soft or slack. They set high standards and make themselves follow through even if it requires a lot of effort.

VOCABULARY

longevity: the quality or characteristic of living a long life

uniform traits: characteristics which constant or the same

serene: calm, peaceful

fast-paced: moving quickly

high-tension: full of tension, stressful

obese: extremely fat

genetic propensity: a tendency which is inherited through

genes forebears: ancestors

altruism: the quality or condition of giving to or caring about other people

prosperity: wealth, abundance

slack: inactive, lazy

Focus ON GRAMMAR

The following questions are based on the preview text and are designed to help you find out what you already know about the structures in this chapter. Work with a partner if your teacher tells you to do so.

1. Find two examples of infinitives in the past tense in the preview text. Write them on the line below. How was the past tense of these infinitives formed?

2. In the following sentence from the preview, is it possible to use a gerund after like? Why or why not?

“Many admit to having been social drinkers throughout their lives, and many like to drink coffee.”

3. What question is answered by the infinitive phrase in the following sentence from the preview? Write the question on the line that follows the sentence.

“Many of them spend a lot of time reading to satisfy their appetite for learning.”

I. Type C Verbs: Followed By an Infinitive or Gerund

There are some verbs that can take either infinitives or gerunds as direct objects with little or no difference in meaning, as is shown in the chart below.

14.20 Recognition Exercise: What Happened First?

DIRECTIONS: For each sentence below, identify which action of the two that are underlined happens first.

Example

I always stop to look in that shop on the way home.

FIRST: stop

SECOND: look

1. I must remember to write a letter tonight.

FIRST: ...     SECOND: ...

2. Sharon stopped smoking five years ago.

FIRST: ...     SECOND: ...

3. I’ll never forget visiting my great aunt in Italy.

FIRST: ...     SECOND: ...

4. Would you stop at the store to pick up some milk on your way home?

FIRST: ...     SECOND: ...

5. Don’t you regret dropping out of high school?

FIRST: ...     SECOND: ...

6. I remember hating physical education classes when I was in high school.

FIRST: ...

SECOND: ...

7. I didn’t forget to call my grandparents on their fiftieth wedding anniversary.

FIRST: ...

SECOND: ...

8. I regret to admit that I’ve never been out of this country.

FIRST: ...

SECOND: ...

14.21 Written Exercise: Fill in the Blanks

DIRECTIONS: Fill in the blanks in the passage below with the correct infinitive or gerund form of the verb provided.

Although Caroline Towers is 93 years old, her memory is sharp as a tack. She never forgets ... (call) her grandchildren on their birthdays, and she always stops ... (buy) them presents when she goes to visit them. She likes ... (do) this because she remembers ... (get) presents from her grandmother when she was a little girl. She tries ... (remember) their favorite colors and their special interests. Her sons and daughter always tell her to stop (buy) ... presents for the grandchildren because they are afraid the children will become spoiled. However, Caroline doesn’t regret ... (show) her grandchildren that they are special to her.

14.22 Written Exercise: Review of Troublesome Verbs

DIRECTIONS: After each situation given below, there are two sentences. Fill in the blank in one sentence with a gerund form of the verb given and the other sentence with the infinitive form.

Example

Robert smokes a pack of cigarettes a day.

Robert stops to smoke a cigarette every day on his way home from work.

Robert would like to stop smoking, but he can’t.

1. Gail doesn’t want any more wrinkles on her face. (try)

a. She tries ... (stay) out of the sun during the hot summer months.

b. She will try ... (use) Vitamin E on her skin to prevent additional wrinkles.

2. Although Cynthia is 85, she has many friends all over the world whom she still keeps in touch with. (forget)

a. She’ll never forget ... (hike) in the mountains in Peru with her friend Luz.

b. She never forgets ... (send) Luz a Christmas card.

3. Dan is 74 years old and has never been married, (regret)

a. He regrets ... (say) that he lost his chance to get married because he couldn’t make up his mind.

b. He regrets ... (be) so indecisive.

4. My grandfather met my grandmother at a wedding while she was on a break from playing the piano.

a. He will always remember ... (see) her beside the piano when he walked in the door.

b. He always remembers ... (take) her out on the anniversary of that day.

II Infinitives and Gerunds as Complements

Infinitives and gerunds can function as complements of the verb be and other linking verbs as shown in the chart below.

14.23 Oral Practice: The Stages of Life

DIRECTIONS: Your teacher will assign you a role: child, adolescent, or adult. Complete each of the following statements with an infinitive or gerund complement according to the stage of life you are in.

1. My primary goal in life is ...

2. My dream has always been ...

3. What I really enjoy about this age is ...

4. I seem ..., but ...

5. The key to being happy is ...

6. What I am anticipating with great excitement is ...

7. The solution to all my problems would be ...

8. The worst part about being this age is ...

14.24 Written Exercise: Infinitive and Gerund Complements

DIRECTIONS: Read the following passage by Ann Guidici Fettner and Pamela Weintraub about longevity research—the study of aging and how to avoid it. Then, with an infinitive or gerund complement, complete each statement about the research in the space provided. The first one is completed as an example.

1 Scientists in the forefront of longevity research are studying chemical changes that occur in the body over time. They are convinced that information about these changes will provide increased comprehension of the problems related to aging, which may result in an aging cure.

2 The thymosins (a family of hormones) play a key role in keeping people healthy, so scientists are investigating how they work. If we can give the elderly enough thymosin to keep the T-cell level high, we should be able to enhance immunity throughout old age. One type of T-cell is the killer cell, which attacks foreign organisms and cancer cells directly. Major progress was made when scientists discovered that thymosins prime the levels of brain hormones involved in reproduction, growth, and development. In five to ten years people will take these thymosins daily to maintain a whole complement of characteristics associated with youth. Scientists realized that daily intake of thymosins could push the average person’s vigorous years upward of eighty or ninety simply by boosting the immune system. Scientists know that other substances may also prove to be potent antiaging agents, but they must find them.

1. One way to find an aging cure is to understand the problems related to aging.

2. The goal of scientists is ...

3. The solution to weakened immunity in old age is ...

4. The job of the killer cell is ...

5. A major breakthrough in the research was ...

6. Something we can look forward to is ...

7. A positive result of the research was ...

8. One difficulty for scientists is ...

III. Infinitive of Purpose

Notice in the box below how the infinitive form of the verb is used to explain purpose.

14.25 Written Exercise: How to Stay Young

DIRECTIONS: Below are some ways to slow down your life which helps to promote longevity. Read each suggestion, and rewrite it using an infinitive of purpose.

Example

Reduce irritants: If you tend to get worked up when you’re stuck in traffic or in line, your heart may be headed for trouble.

Stay calm when you’re stuck in traffic to reduce irritants that can cause heart trouble.

1. Have a good cry. Studies suggest that emotional crying may release stress-related chemicals which have a calming effect.

2. Drive ten miles per hour slower. Try a new route or simply notice the old one more. Slowing down is a good way to appreciate the present moment.

3. Fill your life with rich experiences of all kinds as one way of keeping your mind fresh.

4. Take a moment before eating. Sitting quietly reminds us to notice our meal instead of wolfing it down.

5. Wait a few rings before answering the phone. Rushing to pick it up immediately prolongs your hectic mood.

6. Set aside “boundary time.” Pick a part of each day and allow nothing to intrude upon it.

14.26 Oral Interview: Cosmetic Surgery

DIRECTIONS: Interview two or three Americans or other English speakers about cosmetic surgery. Ask the following questions.

1. Would you ever consider cosmetic surgery such as a face lift, or liposuction? Why or why not?

2. Why do so many famous people, such as movie stars, have cosmetic surgery?

3. Why do ordinary people agree to such surgery?

4. Why do you think people want to hang on to their youthful appearance?

14.27 Written Feedback

DIRECTIONS: Based on the information you collected from your interview, complete the following sentences with an infinitive of purpose.

1. Many famous people, such as movie stars, have cosmetic surgery done ...

2. Many ordinary people have cosmetic surgery done ...

3. People want to hang on to their youthful appearance ...

14.28 Paired Practice: Oral Report

DIRECTIONS: Based on the information already discussed in this chapter and what you have read, prepare an oral report with your partner on the techniques people use to prevent aging. Write at least 10 sentences for the report, and when you present it to the class, divide the sentences up so that each of you is giving half the report. Use infinitive phrases whenever possible to replace either an adverb, adjective, or noun clause.

IV. Causative Verbs: Let, Make, Help, Get

These verbs express cause and are followed by the infinitive form of a verb.

14.29 Oral Practice: Causative Verbs

DIRECTIONS: Use causative verbs from the preceding chart to answer the following questions your teacher or partner asks you.

1. Are you easily persuaded? Give some examples.

2. If you had a teenage son or daughter, what kinds of rules would you have?

3. In your job or at home, what kind of work do you delegate to other people?

4. What kinds of things does your English teacher require?

5. When you’re studying a second language, how can you best remember vocabulary?

6. How do you feel when you drink coffee?

7. What kind of jobs did your parents give you when you were growing up?

8. What are some things that wealthy people have done for them by hired help?

9. What kind of privileges did you have when you were growing up?

14.30 Written Exercise: Fill in the Blanks

DIRECTIONS: Fill in the blank with the appropriate causative verb, a noun or pronoun if necessary, and the correct form of the verb in parentheses.

1. When the police officer saw me speeding, he ... (pull over) to the side of the road. I couldn’t remember where the car registration was, so my wife ... (find) it. I wanted to tell the officer why I was driving so fast, but he wouldn’t ... (explain). Finally, I ... (listen) by saying that my wife was about to give birth. He jumped into action and his assistant (call) an ambulance. When the ambulance arrived they ... (get) in. The police officer ... (leave) without paying a fine.

2. The pleasures of age are much different from the pleasures of youth. First of all, you ... (learn) how everyone turns out. And of course you are witness to your own unfolding drama or comedy. Nobody ... (you) ... (do) things that you don’t enjoy. You can also ... others ... (win) all the arguments without worrying that your opinion is the one that everyone accepts. Best of all you’ll start receiving a lot of assistance in your daily life. You can ... perfect strangers ... (carry) your bags and drive you to the store. And even your kids will ... you ... (manage) the everyday routine when necessary.

V. Special Problems With Gerunds and Infinitives

14.31 Error Analysis

DIRECTIONS: Find the errors with the use of gerunds and infinitives in the following sentences and correct them.

1. The teacher suggested to read the newspaper so that I could improve my English.

2. Some elderly people belong to clubs just for having an opportunity for social contact.

3. Martin is enough educated to get a better job in his profession.

4. It is difficult to imagining what my life would be like if I were 100 years old.

5. The doctor convinced to eat more calcium-rich foods for stronger bones.

6. The mother promised taking the children to the country for the weekend.

7. The spectators were exciting to see their team winning the game.

8. Her brother didn’t help her move shocked me.

9. After many months of hard labor, the workers finished to build the apartment complex.

10. The ground was too much wet to play golf.

11. The police officer pulled over the driver for giving him a speeding ticket.

12. I’m used to leave work every day at 5:00.

13. The nursing home residents appreciated we sang folk songs for them.

14. The child always stops buying candy on the way home from school.

15. After the movie, we considered having gone to get some ice cream.

16. These library books need being returned in three weeks.

17. The court made the woman to pay a fine for driving without a license.

18. The foreign dignitaries were interested to meet with the president.

19. After a very persuasive speech, the salesperson got him buy the cologne.

20. My hope is living a long, healthy, happy life.

Focus on Writing

Perfect and Passive Infinitives and Gerunds

It is possible to use gerunds and infinitives for the functions already covered in this chapter in the past tense or in the passive voice. These are especially common in writing. The following chart demonstrates these possibilities.

14.32 Recognition Exercise: Perfect and Passive Infinitives and Gerunds

DIRECTIONS: For each sentence, determine the time reference of the verb + gerund construction in the sentence. If the time is present, change it to the past. If the time reference is past, change it to the present. If it can’t be changed, write “no change.”

Example

I appreciate finally being given a chance to meet a centenarian, (present) I appreciate finally having been given a chance to meet a centenarian.

1. I dislike reaching the age of 40.

2. My teacher seems to have enjoyed her vacation.

3. I would prefer to have been given a retirement plan at work.

4. Susan recommends teaching at that school.

5. My brother is relieved to have finished his thesis.

6. The lecturer will speak about finding a job.

7. Most centenarians admit to helping other people.

8. My grandmother is pleased to have delivered the good news about increased retirement pay.

9. The lawyer was happy to have received the case.

10. I like having been given a fair opportunity to protest.

14.33 Written Exercise: Perfect and Passive Infinitives and Gerunds

DIRECTIONS: Below is a passage about a 97 year-old man who has been hawking newspapers (selling in the street) in San Francisco for 40 years. Fill in the blanks with past and passive forms of the verbs given in parentheses.

Yesterday Harold Douglas celebrated his 40th anniversary hawking newspapers in San Francisco. He claims ... (start) hawking newspapers on street corners before there were automatic streetlights, and he is proud ... (know) as the oldest hawker in San Francisco. He happily mentions ... (greet) yesterday by dozens of people who shook his hand as he stood on his street corner. He is happy ... (raise) as a hard worker, and he has never liked sitting around. He refuses ... (restrict) to the house all day, staring out the window at nothing, so he appreciates ...(permit) to sell newspapers every day on the street corner. He regrets ... (suffer) from a severe case of pneumonia this past winter, which kept him from his job for the first time since he started hawking.

14.34 Written Practice: Older Is Wiser

DIRECTIONS: Write about an experience from your past that made you wiser or taught you a lesson. Use a variety of past and passive forms.

Analysis of an Authenic Text

DIRECTIONS: Read the following article about aging, referring to the vocabulary on page 379.

In the Battle Against Aging, We Forsake Grace For a Larger Arsenal of Weapons

by Ellen Goodman

“I don’t intend to grow old gracefully. I intend to fight it every step of the way.”

What am I to make of this message? The Census Bureau just announced that the average age of Americans is now a notch over 32 years old. The first of the 75 million baby-boomers have passed 40. Their midlife is marked by the emergence of all sorts of products to help them fight it every step of the way.

There are more than the usual number of unguents and elixirs that promise to rub the age out of our skins and preserve our energy. There are more than the usual products to cover gray hair and fill in the face lines. There are more than the usual admonitions to leg-lift a path to eternally youthful thighs.

Men who could accept their baldness or risk the ridicule of a toupee now have the chance of growing hair again. Women and men who had to accept their crow’s feet or risk the knife to retrieve their younger, tauter skin can now chemically iron their skin.

In modest ways, aging has begun to look like a personal choice. How far are you willing to go to stay the same?

Clearly the money is in youth products. There is no way to sell self-acceptance. There may be a profit in the natural look but not in nature.

As we are offered this expanding array of weapons, we increase our defense budget.

And with each item, with each choice, how much harder it becomes to negotiate a peaceful coexistence with our own age.

How much harder it becomes to age gracefully.

VOCABULARY

notch: a little bit

unguents: creams, oils

elixirs: preparations designed to have some medicinal action, such as prolong life

admonitions: warnings

ridicule: mocking, laughing

crow’s feet: the wrinkles at the outer edge of the eye

array: selection

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Discuss some of the methods used to fight the aging process and their purpose. How effective do you think these methods are?

2. Do you agree that there is no way to self self-acceptance? Do you think that by looking and feeling younger, self-acceptance improves?

3. What does the author mean by the difference between the natural “look” and nature?

Composition Topics

Use what you have learned in this chapter about gerunds and infinitives to write a well-organized essay on one of the following topics.

1. Describe the attitude in your country toward aging. What aspects of lifestyle, opportunities, and services for the elderly reflect this attitude?

2. Describe the three stages of your life: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

3. Would you like to drink from the fountain of youth? Why or why not?