The to-infinitive is an important part of English grammar. It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb, and it helps you express purpose, intent, or future actions. Let’s explore how to use it correctly.
What Is the To-Infinitive?
The to-infinitive is formed by adding to before the base form of a verb:
- to eat
- to write
- to go
- to be
It is different from the bare infinitive, which does not have “to” (e.g., go, eat, be) and is used after certain verbs like can, must, or let.
Uses of the To-Infinitive
. To Express Purpose or Reason
Use the to-infinitive to explain why something happens or why someone does something.
- I called you to ask a question.
- She studies hard to pass the exam.
- They left early to catch the train.
. To Act as the Subject of a Sentence
The to-infinitive can be the subject when talking about an action in a general or abstract way.
- To learn a new language takes time.
- To travel around the world is my dream.
- To forgive is not always easy.
. To Function as the Object of a Verb
Many verbs are followed directly by the to-infinitive.
- He wants to eat now.
- We hope to visit Paris next year.
- She decided to quit her job.
. To Modify a Noun (Adjective Use)
The to-infinitive can describe a noun, giving more information about its purpose or meaning.
- I have a paper to write.
- There’s something to fix in the kitchen.
- She found a place to live.
. After Certain Adjectives and Question Words
Use the to-infinitive after adjectives to explain more about a feeling or situation.
- I’m happy to help.
- It’s difficult to explain.
- She’s ready to leave.
Use the to-infinitive after question words like how, what, where, when, and who (especially in indirect questions).
- I don’t know how to swim.
- Can you tell me where to find the library?
- He asked who to call in an emergency.
What is the rule for using the to-infinitive after adjectives?
Place the to-infinitive immediately after the adjective to explain more.
When an adjective is followed by a verb, use the to-infinitive form to complete the meaning (e.g., happy to help).
Special Patterns With the To-Infinitive
. Too... / Enough
Use too + adjective/adverb + to-infinitive to show something negative:
- The box is too heavy to lift.
- She speaks too fast to understand.
Use adjective/adverb + enough + to-infinitive to show something positive:
- He is tall enough to reach the shelf.
- They finished quickly enough to catch the bus.
. Verb + Object + To-Infinitive
Some verbs can be followed by an object plus a to-infinitive.
- I asked her to help me.
- They told us to wait outside.
- She reminded him to call later.
Translate: They told us to wait outside.
They told us to wait outside.
The pattern is ''verb + object + to-infinitive'' (told us to wait).
. Passive Form of the To-Infinitive
To talk about actions in the passive voice, use to be + past participle.
- The report needs to be finished.
- The room has to be cleaned.
- She wants to be invited.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
. Using the Gerund (-ing) Instead of the To-Infinitive
Some verbs require the to-infinitive, not the gerund.
- Correct: I hope to go soon.
- Incorrect: I hope going soon.
. Omitting “to” When It Is Needed
Do not leave out to unless the verb specifically takes a bare infinitive (e.g., let, make, help).
- Correct: She wants to study.
- Incorrect: She wants study.
Choose the correct sentence.
She wants to study.
The verb 'want' must be followed by a to-infinitive ('to study'), not by the base verb alone.
. Confusing Verb Patterns
Some verbs are followed by the gerund (-ing) instead of the to-infinitive. Learn these exceptions.
- She enjoys reading. (Not to read)
- They avoided talking. (Not to talk)
Translate: They avoided talking.
They avoided talking.
'Avoid' requires the gerund form after it.
Summary
- The to-infinitive is to + base verb (e.g., to eat, to go).
- Use it to express purpose, act as a subject or object, modify nouns, and follow certain adjectives or question words.
- Remember special patterns like too... to..., enough to..., and verb + object + to-infinitive.
- Avoid confusing the to-infinitive with gerunds (-ing).
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
