In English, the phrase can't stand is used to express strong dislike or intolerance.
It can be followed by either a to-infinitive (to do) or a gerund (doing).
While both forms are grammatically correct, they sometimes carry subtle differences in meaning or emphasis.
1. "Can't stand doing"
This is the more common and natural-sounding form in everyday English. It usually refers to a general or repeated situation that you dislike.
- I can't stand waiting in long lines.
- She can't stand hearing loud noises.
- They can't stand eating spicy food.
2. "Can't stand to do"
This form often emphasizes a specific instance or a hypothetical situation. It may sound slightly more formal or emotional.
- I can't stand to see you suffer.
- He can't stand to be late for work.
- We can't stand to think about what might happen.
Key Takeaway
In many cases, both forms are interchangeable with little or no change in meaning:
- I can't stand cleaning the bathroom. / I can't stand to clean the bathroom.
However, native speakers tend to prefer the gerund (-ing) form for habitual actions,
and the infinitive (to + verb) for emotional reactions or one-time events.