'Do you like to dance?' vs. 'Do you like dance?'

[Emma]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #46 "Elementary English Grammar", question 5

Do you like .........?

(a) dance
(b) of dance
(c) to dance
(d) danced

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #46 "Elementary English Grammar", answer 5

Do you like to dance?

Correct answer: (c) to dance
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let me know why to dance?

Emma

[Pamela]

After the like can be used verb(infinitive form)or gerund
Ex.I like to dance
I like dancing

[Steve]

Both are correct. A gerund or a "to" infinitive can follow the verb "like". Some other verbs that can be followed by both are "start, begin, continue, love, and hate". The verbs "stop, remember, and try" can be followed by both, but there is a change in meaning. That's all I can remember off the top of my head. There are usually lists to tell you when to use a gerund or an infinitive in grammar books.

I like to dance.

I like dancing.

You can even say "I like dance". It's possible for "dance" to be a noun. In this case "dance" means a topic or a subject. Of course, the infinitive and gerund function as objects after a verb, which makes them nouns also.

She likes dance.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=%22she+likes+dance%22

He likes dance.

http://www.answers.com/dance

2. The art of dancing: studied dance in college.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=%22He+likes+dance%22

If a verb is followed by a preposition, then we use a gerund.

We're thinking about going away for a weekend.

[Kitosdad]

Alex, everyone is welcome here, especially when they use the New Members thread.
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