If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed that some English phrases seem almost identical but have small differences. One example is “it starts working” and “it starts to work.” In this post, I’ll explain how these two phrases differ and when you should use each one.
What Are Gerunds and Infinitives?
Let me start by explaining two key grammar terms: gerunds and infinitives.
A gerund is a verb form ending in -ing that acts like a noun. So, in “starts working,” the word working is a gerund.
An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually with to in front of it. In “starts to work,” to work is the infinitive.
The Meaning of “It Starts Working”
When I say “it starts working,” I’m talking about an action that begins and continues. This phrase puts more focus on the process itself.
For example:
“The machine starts working as soon as you press the button.”
Here, the machine begins working and keeps operating. So, “starts working” is about the action happening over time.
The Meaning of “It Starts to Work”
On the other hand, “it starts to work” focuses on the beginning of an action. I use this phrase when I want to point out when something begins functioning or starts happening.
For example: “After the repair, the computer starts to work.”
In this case, I’m talking about the exact moment the computer begins to function again.
When Do I Use Each Phrase?
Even though both phrases are often used in similar ways, I want to give you some tips on when to use each one:
I use “starts working” when I’m talking about an action that keeps happening after it begins.
Example: “The heater starts working right after I turn it on.”
I choose “starts to work” when I’m focusing on the beginning of the action.
Example: “Once the lights came back on, the fan starts to work again.”
Common Mistakes I See
Here are a few mistakes I’ve come across when using these phrases:
Incorrect: “The car starts to working after the mechanic fixed it.”
Correct: “The car starts working after the mechanic fixed it.” (Use the gerund working without to.)
Incorrect: “I started to working last week.”
Correct: “I started working last week.” (Don’t use to with working.)
In conclusion, both “it starts working” and “it starts to work” are correct, but they have different focuses. “It starts working” talks about the ongoing process, while “it starts to work” focuses on the beginning of an action. Next time you use these phrases, think about whether you’re talking about a process or the start of something!
Bibliography
ProWritingAid. "Started to Work vs. Started Working." Retrieved from https://prowritingaid.com/art/1909/started-to-work-vs-started-working.aspx
Speakspeak. "Using the Infinitive or the -ing Form After Start and Begin." Retrieved from https://speakspeak.com/english-grammar/using-the-infinitive-or-the-ing-form-after-start-and-begin
Grammarhow. "Started to Work vs. Started Working." Retrieved from https://grammarhow.com/started-to-work-vs-started-working/
Comments