I have always been taught that I should use the base form of a verb after the word 'to'. But I sometimes see sentences such as 'I am looking forward to meeting you' & 'She has devoted her life to doing charitable works'. So how to know when to use base form or verb+ing after the word 'to'? Thank you.
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The 'rule' you were taught fails to take account of the different usages of to. In 'look forward to [the school holidays]' it is a transitivising particle, in 'try to win' it is the infinitive marker (particle), and in 'went to Blackpool' it is the preposition. – Edwin Ashworth Jun 18 '15 at 08:20
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1Related What is the difference between the two phrases to meet you and meeting you?, and “To hear” or “to hearing”? – Mari-Lou A Jun 18 '15 at 08:31
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1Also related: Looking forward to follow vs. following and I am looking forward to …? (followed by a Gerund)? and Verb + to infinitive or Verb + …ing – Mari-Lou A Jun 18 '15 at 08:38
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For learning English there are not only dictionaries, but also grammars. The problem is to find the right grammar for your purpose. – rogermue Jun 18 '15 at 09:49