Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Chan-Seung Lee]

In the following, I am wondering which example is correct.
Can you tell me a correct example or examples?
If possible, please give me an explanation.

1. I think it better to study than sing.
2. I think it better to study than to sing.
3. I think it better to study than singing.
4. I think it better to study.
5. I think it better that you study than you sing.
6. I think it better that you study than that you sing.
7. I think it better that you study.

Thanks.

[Nef]

Hello,

Here's my opinion.

The first thing that occurs to me is that # 3 is wrong. This is because there is a clear mismatch (lack of equivalence) between the verb forms ("to study" and "singing.") One form is the infinitive, one is not. Of the seven statements, number 3 is the only one that really bothers me. (It's OK to use the infinitive form if both verbs are in that form, and it's OK to use the "ing" form if both verbs are in THAT form. But it's not correct to use both forms in the same short sentence, as in # 3.

In general, I'd say something like "I think it's (or it is) better to study than to sing." In a particular case (for instance, if I want my daughter to stop singing and start studying ), I'd say "It's better that you study than sing" or "It's better for you to study than to sing."

Summary: please try avoid things like # 3 (because of mismatched verb forms).