Plans and Decisions with Reporting Verbs
When describing plans, decisions, and future intentions, we commonly use reporting verbs followed by infinitives. Key verbs in this category include: decide, plan, hope, expect, choose, intend, and aim. These verbs help us report what someone has planned or decided for the future.
Context and Time Reference
These structures can refer to past decisions (She decided to move abroad), present plans (I plan to finish by Friday), or future intentions (They expect to arrive tomorrow). The time reference is indicated by the tense of the reporting verb, while the infinitive remains in its base form.
Examples
The company decided to open a new branch in Madrid.Shows a past decision using 'decide to + infinitive'
We're planning to renovate the house next spring.Expresses a future plan using present continuous of 'plan + to infinitive'
Sarah hopes to complete her degree by next year.Demonstrates ongoing intention using 'hope + to infinitive'
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect: They decided going to Paris.
✅ Correct: They decided to go to Paris.
Explanation: After 'decide', always use the infinitive with 'to', not the -ing form
❌ Incorrect: We plan buying a new car.
✅ Correct: We plan to buy a new car.
Explanation: The verb 'plan' must be followed by 'to + infinitive', not a gerund
Tips for Success
- Remember that the infinitive always stays in its base form, regardless of the time reference
- These verbs often appear in business and academic contexts when discussing future plans
- Use present continuous (am/is/are planning to) for definite future arrangements
Learning Path Notes
Key Concepts in This Series:
- Building on basic reporting verb patterns
- Expanding from agreements/refusals to plans/decisions
- Preparing for more complex reporting structures