What Does “Object to doing sth” Mean?
“Object to doing sth” means to express dislike or disagreement with an action or idea. It shows that someone is against or disapproves of doing something.
Introduction
The phrase “object to doing sth” is commonly used in English to express opposition or disapproval. When you object to doing something, you are saying that you do not want to do it or you disagree with it. This phrase is often used in formal and informal situations, such as meetings, conversations, or written communication. Understanding the “object to doing sth” meaning helps learners express their feelings clearly and politely when they do not agree with an idea or action. It is important to know how to use this phrase correctly to avoid confusion and communicate effectively.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: object to doing something
- Type: intransitive (followed by a gerund)
- Level: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- Short meaning: to express dislike or disagreement with an action
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Object to doing sth” is an inseparable phrase. The verb “object” is always followed by the preposition “to,” and then a gerund (the -ing form of a verb).
Pattern: object + to + verb-ing
Example: She objects to working late.
Note that “object” cannot be followed directly by a noun or infinitive without “to.”
How to Use “Object to doing sth”?
Use “object to doing sth” when you want to politely express disagreement or refusal about an action. It is often used in formal or polite conversations. The phrase is followed by a gerund, which acts as the object of the preposition “to.”
Examples include workplace discussions, legal situations, or everyday disagreements. It is a useful phrase to show your opinion without sounding rude.
Examples
Imagine a team meeting where someone suggests working on Saturday.
- I object to working on weekends because I need time to rest.
- He objects to changing the project plan without consulting the team.
- They object to increasing the prices so quickly.
- She objected to being assigned extra tasks without extra pay.
- We object to using outdated equipment for the new project.
These examples show how “object to doing sth” is used in sentences to express disagreement politely.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes learners make mistakes with this phrase by using the wrong verb form or structure.
- Incorrect: I object to work late.
- Correct: I object to working late.
- Incorrect: She objects doing that.
- Correct: She objects to doing that.
Remember, always use “to” followed by a gerund after “object.”
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrases include “disagree with,” “oppose,” and “refuse to do sth.” However, “object to doing sth” specifically emphasizes formal or polite opposition to an action.
- Object to doing sth – formal, followed by gerund.
- Disagree with sth – more general, can be followed by nouns or clauses.
- Oppose sth – stronger opposition, often followed by nouns.
- Refuse to do sth – means to decline doing something, followed by infinitive.
For example, “I object to working late” is more formal than “I don’t like working late,” and “I refuse to work late” means you will not do it at all.
Common Collocations
Some common objects that follow “object to” include:
- Working late – disagreeing with staying late at work.
- Paying extra fees – opposing additional charges.
- Changing plans – not agreeing with plan changes.
- Using certain methods – objecting to specific techniques or ways.
- Doing tasks – refusing or disagreeing with assigned duties.
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of object to doing sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “object to doing sth”:
Anna: I think we should finish the report by Friday.
John: I object to working so quickly. We need more time for quality.
Anna: That’s a good point. Let’s ask the manager for an extension.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
- A) I object to work late on Fridays.
- B) I object to working late on Fridays.
- C) I object working late on Fridays.
Correct answer: B
Fill in the blank:
She objects to ________ (change) the schedule without notice.
Answer: changing
FAQs
- Q: Can “object to” be followed by a noun?
A: Yes, but when expressing disagreement with an action, it is usually followed by a gerund.
- Q: Is “object to doing sth” formal or informal?
A: It is generally more formal or polite.
- Q: Can I say “object doing sth” without “to”?
A: No, “object” must be followed by “to” plus a gerund.
- Q: What is the difference between “object to” and “refuse to”?
A: “Object to” means to disagree or disapprove, while “refuse to” means to decline to do something.
- Q: Is “object to” separable?
A: No, “object to” is inseparable and always stays together.