Difference between to + infinitive and for + -ing

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Anonymous  #283769  Sat, 21 Oct 06 05:43 AM
Consider the following sentences:

Steve and Rick shared a determination to become a singing duo.

Steve and Rick shared a determination of becoming a singing duo.

What is the difference between the two?  This concept is tested very much on the SAT, and I mess up sometimes.  Can someone explain this to me?  Also, can someone include the difference between "to + inf" and "for + -ing?"
  
Cool Breeze  #284014  Sat, 21 Oct 06 10:18 PM
The only difference is the fact that using the infinitive is less formal. There is no difference in meaning. You have the same choice with countless nouns. Here are some examples:

This is the only way to do it.
This is the only way of doing it.

I had an opportunity to visit him.
I had an opportunity of visiting him.

I had no intention to hurt his feelings.
I had no intention of hurting his feelings.

Cheers
CB
  
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