Element FORM/USE: VERBS OF SENSES + OBJECT + '-ING'
SuperCat VERBS
SubCat patterns_with to and -ing
Lexical Range N/A
Level B2
Cando Can use some verbs connected with the senses + direct object + an '-ing' form, to give emphasis to an ongoing activity.
Corrected Learner Example Then I heard someone screaming, I was afraid and I said to the others: "Let's go out, something is happening". (Greece; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; Greek; Pass)

I think we can learn nothing by seeing animals out of their habitat: we cannot see them running or eating or hunting. (Italy; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; Italian; Fail)
Uncorrected Learner Example Then I heard someone screaming , I was afraid and I said to the others: "Let's go out, something is happening". (Greece; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; Greek; Pass)

I think we can learn nothing by seeing animals out of their habitat: we cannot see them running or eating or hunting: (Italy; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; Italian; Fail)
Comments While the corresponding infinitive form is used by some at B2, its widespread use does not appear until C1 (e.g. 'I heard someone scream.').

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