Understanding TO as a Preposition in Phrasal Verbs
When TO is part of a phrasal verb, it functions as a preposition and must be followed by a gerund (-ing form). This is different from TO as part of an infinitive. These phrasal verbs express ongoing actions or processes that we approach, adapt to, or handle.
Common Phrasal Verbs with TO
Several important phrasal verbs follow this pattern:
– get round to: finally doing something after delay
– come round to: gradually accept or agree
– see to: take care of or handle
– attend to: deal with or focus on
– stick to: continue doing or following
– resort to: use as a last option
– get round to: finally doing something after delay
– come round to: gradually accept or agree
– see to: take care of or handle
– attend to: deal with or focus on
– stick to: continue doing or following
– resort to: use as a last option
Examples
I never got round to cleaning the garage last weekend.Shows postponed action finally being addressed
She gradually came round to accepting the changes at work.Indicates process of gradually agreeing with something
I'll see to booking the restaurant for tonight.Shows taking responsibility for handling a task
The doctor will attend to examining your injury shortly.Indicates focusing on a specific task or duty
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect: I'll get round to clean the house.
✅ Correct: I'll get round to cleaning the house.
Explanation: TO in these phrasal verbs requires gerund, not infinitive
❌ Incorrect: They resorted to steal food.
✅ Correct: They resorted to stealing food.
Explanation: After resort to, use gerund form (-ing)
❌ Incorrect: She's still getting used working late.
✅ Correct: She's still getting used to working late.
Explanation: Don't omit TO in these fixed phrases
Tips for Success
- Remember that TO in these phrases is a preposition, not part of an infinitive
- If you can replace TO with 'about' or 'towards', it's likely a preposition requiring gerund
- Create mental associations: 'getting round TO doing' always involves postponement
- Practice these phrases in real contexts like daily tasks and work situations
Learning Path Notes
Key Concepts in This Series:
- Builds on previous TO + gerund patterns
- Focuses specifically on phrasal verb applications
- Prepares for more complex gerund constructions