What is an Infinitive Clause?
An infinitive clause is a group of words that includes an infinitive verb form (the base form of a verb preceded by "to") and functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb within a sentence.
These clauses can add detail, purpose, or intent, making sentences more informative and precise.
What is an Infinitive Clause?
An infinitive clause includes the base form of a verb preceded by the particle "to." For example:
To eat is necessary.
She wants to learn.
Unlike finite clauses, which have a subject and a finite verb, infinitive clauses do not. They serve different purposes in a sentence and are more flexible in their use.
Functions of Infinitive Clauses
Infinitive clauses can function as subjects, objects, or complements in sentences:
As a subject: "To read daily improves your vocabulary."
As an object: "She loves to swim."
As a complement: "His goal is to travel."
These clauses add detail and clarity, making your sentences more informative and precise. Additionally, infinitive clauses can also function as adverbials, providing more context:
As an adverbial of purpose: "She left early to catch the bus."
As an adverbial of result: "He practiced daily to become a champion."
Forming Infinitive Clauses
Forming an infinitive clause is straightforward. Use the base form of the verb with the particle "to."
Here are some examples:
To write clearly is important.
They decided to start early.
He asked to join the team.
Common Uses of Infinitive Clauses
Infinitive clauses are commonly used to express purpose, intent, or result:
Purpose: "She studies hard to succeed."
Intent: "We planned to visit the museum."
Result: "He trained daily to become stronger."
Infinitive clauses are also used in combination with certain verbs, adjectives, and nouns:
With verbs: "He agreed to help."
With adjectives: "It’s important to stay focused."
With nouns: "They had a chance to win."
Rules for Using Infinitive Clauses
To use infinitive clauses correctly, follow these rules:
Keep the infinitive clause close to the word it modifies: "She promised to call back."
Use the infinitive without "to" after certain verbs like let, make, see, hear: "He made her cry."
Avoid splitting infinitives when possible: Prefer "to go quickly" over "to quickly go."
Common Mistakes with Infinitive Clauses
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Splitting infinitives unnecessarily: Incorrect: "To quickly go"; Correct: "To go quickly."
Using "for" incorrectly: Incorrect: "It is important for to eat healthy"; Correct: "It is important to eat healthy."
Misplacing the infinitive clause: Incorrect: "She promised to her mother to call back"; Correct: "She promised to call back to her mother."
Practice Exercises for Infinitive Clauses
Practice forming and using infinitive clauses with these exercises:
Rewrite the sentences with infinitive clauses:
"She hopes that she will get the job."
"We decided that we would leave early."
Identify the function of the infinitive clause in each sentence:
"To win the game was their main goal."
"He offered to carry the bags."
Correct the mistakes in these sentences:
"She wants to to learn more about the subject."
"He plans to quickly finish the project."