What is Infinitive Form?
The infinitive form is the base form of a verb, often preceded by "to." It functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb, making it versatile in sentence construction.
Examples include "to run," "to eat," and "to be." Understanding and using infinitives correctly is essential for mastering English grammar.
What is an Infinitive?
An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by "to." It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb.
Examples:
to run
to eat
to be
Structure: The basic structure of an infinitive is "to" + base verb. This form is different from other verb forms because it does not indicate tense or subject.
Types of Infinitives
Bare Infinitive: A bare infinitive is the verb without "to." It's often used after modal verbs.
Examples:
She can swim.
They must leave.
Rules:
Use bare infinitives after modal verbs (can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would).
Use bare infinitives after certain verbs like "let," "make," and "help."
Common Mistake:
Incorrect: She can to swim.
Correct: She can swim.
Practice Exercise: Identify the bare infinitives in the following sentences:
He should finish his work.
Let him go to the party.
They can help us.
Split Infinitive: A split infinitive occurs when an adverb is inserted between "to" and the verb. This structure is widely accepted in modern usage.
Examples:
to boldly go
to quickly decide
Historical Background: Split infinitives were traditionally avoided in formal writing, but they are now commonly accepted for clarity and natural flow.
Common Mistake:
Incorrect: She wants to quickly, and efficiently complete the task.
Correct: She wants to quickly and efficiently complete the task.
Practice Exercise: Rewrite the sentences to include split infinitives:
She decided to leave immediately.
They plan to complete the project soon.
He promised to call us early.
Negative Infinitive: A negative infinitive uses "not" before the infinitive to negate the action.
Examples:
She decided not to go.
They prefer not to speak.
Usage: Use negative infinitives to express actions that should not or will not happen.
Common Mistake:
Incorrect: She decided to not go.
Correct: She decided not to go.
Practice Exercise: Convert the sentences to use negative infinitives:
He chose not to participate.
She prefers not to wait.
They decided not to invest.
Functions of Infinitives in Sentences
As a Noun: Infinitives can act as the subject or object in a sentence.
Examples:
To read is enjoyable. (subject)
She likes to dance. (object)
Practice Exercise: Identify the infinitive acting as a noun:
To exercise daily is important.
They decided to travel.
To cook is his hobby.
As an Adjective: Infinitives can modify nouns by providing additional information.
Examples:
He has a book to read.
The decision to move was difficult.
Practice Exercise: Identify the infinitive acting as an adjective:
She found a place to stay.
He gave me a task to complete.
We need a strategy to win.
As an Adverb: Infinitives can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs by explaining why or how.
Examples:
She left early to avoid traffic.
He is eager to start.
Practice Exercise: Identify the infinitive acting as an adverb:
They worked hard to succeed.
She is determined to learn.
He practices daily to improve.
Common Infinitive Phrases and Their Uses
Infinitive of Purpose: Infinitives can express the purpose of an action.
Examples:
She studies hard to succeed.
He went to the store to buy milk.
Practice Exercise: Create sentences using the infinitive of purpose:
______ to pass the exam.
______ to save money.
______ to get fit.
Infinitive with Too/Enough: Infinitives can be used with "too" or "enough" to describe sufficiency or excess.
Examples:
The soup is too hot to eat.
She is strong enough to lift it.
Practice Exercise: Rewrite the sentences using "too" or "enough":
The problem is difficult (solve).
She is smart (understand).
He is too tired (continue).
Infinitive After Certain Verbs: Some verbs are commonly followed by infinitives.
Examples:
He wants to learn.
They decided to leave.
She plans to travel.
List of Common Verbs Followed by Infinitives:
agree
decide
hope
plan
refuse
want
Practice Exercise: Use the verbs to complete the sentences with infinitives:
They agreed ______.
She hopes ______.
He refused ______.