An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word to (e.g., to eat, to run, to be). Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.
Infinitives are used:
- After certain verbs (e.g., want, need, like)
- After adjectives (e.g., easy, happy)
- To express purpose (e.g., I study to learn English)
There is also a form called the bare infinitive, which is the base verb without to. This is used after modal verbs (can, will, must) and verbs of perception (see, hear).
Understanding infinitives helps with verb patterns and sentence structure in English.
A2
Table of Contents
- To-Infinitive
The to-infinitive is a verb form that begins with “to” plus the base verb (e.g., to eat, to go). It is used to show purpose, intention, or possibility. It can be a subject, object, or modifier in a sentence.
- Bare Infinitive
The bare infinitive is the base form of a verb without "to." It is used after certain verbs, modal verbs, and expressions in English.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
