What is it that sometimes I can put a noun instead of an ING verb:
I insist on getting a present for them.
I insist on them getting a present.
In the latter, is the meaning the same? I cannot think of another example (with another verb).
Learn English – I insist on them getting X I insist on getting sth for them
grammarverbs
Best Answer
The meaning is not the same. 'Getting' can mean both buying a present ready to give, and receiving a present as a gift. The two sentences change who is doing the action, which person is "getting the present" and what kind of 'getting' is being described.
"I insist on getting a present for them" means: I will act, I will get a present. Then I will give the present to them.
e.g. "We are going to a party. The invitation said that presents are optional, but I insist on getting a present for them".
I insist on them getting a present" means: I will do nothing. I demand that they receive a present. I will not give the present, I do not specify who will give the present, it might be clear from the context.
e.g. "You said that everyone who entered the competiton would get a present. This person entered, and you do not want to give them a present? I insist on them getting a present".
"I insist on them getting a present" also means: I will do nothing. I demand someone else buys a present ready to give to someone unspecified.
e.g. "Both families are going and we agreed to bring a present each, now they want to join up and share our present. I insist on them getting a present as well."
Edit: I re-read it, and saw another interpretation. Updated my answer.