What is an Infinitive Verb?
An infinitive verb is the base form of a verb, often preceded by "to," such as "to eat" or "to run." It is used to express actions, conditions, or states and can function in various grammatical roles within a sentence.
Understanding infinitive verbs is essential for constructing clear and effective sentences in English.
Understanding Infinitive Verbs
An infinitive verb is the simplest form of a verb, typically preceded by the word "to." For example:
to eat
to run
to play
to study
Infinitives can also appear without "to" in certain constructions, known as the bare infinitive:
eat
run
play
study
Types of Infinitives
Full Infinitives
Full infinitives include the "to" form of the verb. They are used in various grammatical structures. Examples:
to write
to dance
to learn
to drive
Bare Infinitives
Bare infinitives lack the "to" and are used after certain verbs and modal auxiliaries. Examples:
She made him eat the vegetables.
You must go now.
Let him speak.
We heard her sing.
Uses of Infinitive Verbs
As the Subject of a Sentence
Infinitives can function as the subject of a sentence.
To read improves your knowledge.
To travel broadens your horizons.
To swim is fun.
To succeed requires effort.
As the Object of a Verb
Infinitives often act as the object of a verb.
She loves to sing.
They plan to visit the museum.
He wants to learn.
We decided to leave early.
Infinitives After Adjectives
Infinitives follow adjectives to give more information.
She is eager to learn.
It is hard to believe.
They were happy to help.
It's difficult to understand.
Infinitives of Purpose
Infinitives can express purpose, explaining why something is done.
He studies hard to succeed.
She called to invite us.
They exercise to stay healthy.
We saved money to buy a car.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Typical Errors
Many learners confuse when to use full versus bare infinitives. For example, using "to" unnecessarily:
Incorrect: She made him to eat.
Correct: She made him eat.
Another common mistake is splitting infinitives unnecessarily:
Incorrect: She wants to quickly finish her work.
Correct: She wants to finish her work quickly.
Tips and Tricks
Remember that certain verbs (e.g., make, let) and modal verbs (e.g., can, should) are followed by bare infinitives. Additionally, avoid splitting infinitives unless necessary for clarity.
Practice Exercises
Fill in the blanks with the correct form (full or bare infinitive):
He wants ___ (to go) to the park.
They can ___ (speak) three languages.
She decided ___ (leave) early.
We let them ___ (play) outside.
Correct the sentences if needed:
She made him to wash the dishes.
He must to finish his homework.
We need to to go now.
They want us arrive early.
Rewrite the sentences using infinitives:
I am happy because I got a promotion.
He was excited because he was going to travel.
They were disappointed because they lost the game.
She is nervous because she has to give a speech.