Complex gerund and infinitive patterns

Use perfect, passive and possessive gerund or infinitive forms after complex predicates.

When do we use it?

Express earlier action, passive meaning and formal ownership within non-finite clauses.

Form

Use forms such as having done, being done, to have done and possessive + -ing.

• He denied having taken it.
• She resented being ignored.
• I appreciate your helping.

Key contrast

At C1, grammar choices shape emphasis, stance, information flow and register as well as basic correctness.

Common mistakes

• He denied to have taken it. → He denied having taken it.
• She resented to be ignored. → She resented being ignored.

Remember

Use perfect, passive and possessive gerund or infinitive forms after complex predicates.

Quick check

• Identify the focus, stance or relationship between clauses.
• Check inversion, complementation and reference carefully.
• Prefer the option that is both grammatical and appropriate for the register.