Introduction to Infinitives
Infinitives are the base form of a verb, typically preceded by the word "to." They can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence. Infinitives are versatile and can convey purpose, intention, or a state of being.
Examples:
To read is enjoyable. (Infinitive as a noun)
She is eager to learn. (Infinitive as an adjective)
He came to help us. (Infinitive as an adverb)
Infinitives as Subjects
How Infinitives Function as Subjects
An infinitive can serve as the subject of a sentence. When used in this way, it represents an action or state of being. The verb that follows the infinitive typically agrees with it in number and is often in the singular form, regardless of whether the action conveys a singular or plural idea.
Examples
To travel is exciting. (The action of traveling is the subject.)
To swim in the ocean is refreshing. (The act of swimming is the subject.)
To read is fundamental for gaining knowledge. (The act of reading is the subject.)
To learn a new language can be challenging. (The process of learning is the subject.)
Infinitives as Objects
1. Infinitives as Objects of Verbs
Infinitives can act as the object of a verb, indicating what action is desired or performed.
Examples
I want to go.
She hopes to win.
They need to study.
2. Verbs That Commonly Take Infinitives as Objects
Certain verbs are often followed by infinitives:
Examples
want (e.g., I want to eat.)
hope (e.g., She hopes to travel.)
need (e.g., We need to leave.)
decide (e.g., He decided to start.)
plan (e.g., They plan to visit.)
Some of Infinitives as Objects
Infinitives After Adjectives
1. Using Infinitives After Adjectives
Infinitives often follow adjectives to express a feeling or state. This construction adds meaning and elaborates on the adjective.
Examples
happy to see
eager to learn
afraid to fail
Some of Infinitives Following Adjectives
Examples
She is happy to help.
He is eager to start his new job.
They are afraid to speak in public.
I’m excited to visit the museum.
She is willing to try new things.
Infinitives After Nouns
1. Infinitives Used After Nouns
Infinitives can follow nouns to provide additional information or clarify the action related to the noun. This construction often indicates purpose or intention.
Examples
decision to make
opportunity to learn
plan to travel
Usage
Examples
She made a decision to move.
He received an opportunity to study abroad.
We have a plan to improve our skills.
They presented a suggestion to help the team.
I found a way to solve the problem.
Infinitives in Phrasal Verbs
1. Common Phrasal Verbs That Include Infinitives
Infinitives can be part of phrasal verbs, often expressing actions or intentions. Here are some common phrasal verbs that include infinitives:
Examples
get to (e.g., get to know)
look forward to (e.g., look forward to seeing)
Infinitives in Passive Voice
1. Infinitives in Passive Structures
Infinitives can appear in passive voice constructions, often used to emphasize the action rather than the subject performing it. The structure typically involves "to be" followed by the past participle of the verb.
Examples
to be seen
to be heard
to be completed
Usage in Context
Examples
The project needs to be completed by Friday.
It’s important to be heard in discussions.
The proposal is expected to be approved soon.
She wants to be recognized for her hard work.
Infinitives with "Too" and "Enough"
1. Using Infinitives with "Too"
Infinitives can follow "too" to indicate that something is excessive and causes difficulty or inability to perform an action.
Infinitives can also follow "enough" to suggest that someone or something possesses sufficient qualities to perform an action.
Examples
smart enough to win
Practical Usage
Examples
The exam was too hard to pass.
This task is too complicated to complete.
She is smart enough to solve the problem.