The infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by "to" (to + verb), and it can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence.
- As a noun, an infinitive can act as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.
- As an adjective, it modifies a noun by expressing purpose or intent.
- As an adverb, it explains why, when, or how something is done.
Infinitive forms:
- To eat, to sleep, to run (etc.)
Functions:
- Noun: To learn is important.
- Adjective: I have a book to read.
- Adverb: She left to catch the bus.
Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.
Infinitives can be used as subjects, to express purpose, and to modify nouns.
Infinitives are formed as 'to + base form of the verb'.
Infinitive as a Noun
When an infinitive acts as a noun, it can be a subject, direct object, or subject complement.
- Subject: To travel is my dream.
- Object: She wants to dance.
- Complement: His goal is to succeed.
Infinitives can function as subjects, objects, or complements (all as nouns).
An infinitive as a subject (noun) appears in 'To learn is important.'
Infinitive as an Adjective
As an adjective, the infinitive modifies a noun by expressing purpose or potential.
- I have a report to write. (The report needs writing.)
- She’s the person to ask. (She is the person for asking.)
As an adjective, the infinitive modifies a noun by expressing purpose or potential.
In 'I need a pen to write,' the infinitive modifies 'pen,' so it's an adjective.
Infinitive as an Adverb
Infinitives used as adverbs explain why, when, or how something is done, often modifying a verb, adjective, or adverb.
- He paused to think. (Why he paused)
- She is eager to help. (Why she is eager)
Adverbial infinitives express the reason, purpose, or condition for an action.
'She works to succeed' and 'I’m happy to join you' use infinitives adverbially.
Infinitive Without 'To' (Bare Infinitive)
The infinitive is sometimes used without "to" after certain verbs, modal verbs, and expressions.
- I made him leave.
- She can sing well.
The bare infinitive follows certain verbs and modal verbs.
After 'make' and 'let,' use the bare infinitive: 'I made him apologize.'
Infinitives are versatile verb forms that function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. They typically appear as "to" + base verb, but the "to" may be dropped in certain cases.
- Infinitives can serve as subjects, objects, modifiers, or explain purpose.
- The full infinitive is "to + verb," but some situations require the bare infinitive.
- Understanding infinitives helps clarify sentence meaning and structure across many contexts.