Learn English – “Play” or “playing” – which one is correct and why
grammar
People often see him play basketball on the playground at the weekend.
Can I use playing instead?
Best Answer
We can use either the infinitive without to or the -ing form after the
object of verbs such as hear, see, notice, watch. The infinitive
without to often emphasises the whole action or event which someone
hears or sees. The -ing form usually emphasises an action or event
which is in progress or not yet completed.
He saw her drive off with a young man in the passenger seat. (The speaker observed the whole event.)
Maria heard him coming up the stairs towards her room, and felt scared. (The action was in progress, happening, but not completed.)
This isn't a grammatical mistake, but a reference to an old Simpsons episode from 1994. The phrase is meant to be said in a condescending tone: "Aww, it thinks it's people!" It means exactly what you think it means. The grammatical error is done intentionally for comedic effect.
Best Answer
Therefore, both forms are correct and have the same meaning. They might suggest different meanings when using them in past tense however.
Another thing: