Understanding the future tense in English can be quite challenging for language learners. One of the most intriguing aspects of this tense is its connection with infinitives. This article will delve into the mechanics of the future tense, how it works with infinitives, and provide practical examples to help you grasp the concept better.
What is the Future Tense?
The future tense is used to talk about actions or events that will happen after the present moment. It is a way of expressing our intentions, predictions, plans, and schedules. There are several ways to form the future tense in English, but this article will focus on the use of infinitives.
Basic Structure of the Future Tense
In English, the most common way to form the future tense is by using the modal auxiliary verb “will” followed by the base form of the main verb. The formula is:
[ text{Subject} + text{will} + text{base form of the verb} ]
Examples:
– I will go to the store.
– She will meet us at the cafe.
– They will arrive tomorrow.
However, the future tense can also be constructed using other methods, such as “going to,” present continuous, and modal verbs like “shall.”
Understanding Infinitives
An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by the word “to.” It is the form you find in dictionaries, and it can be used as a noun, adjective, or adverb. Infinitives are versatile and can serve various functions in a sentence.
Examples of infinitives:
– to eat
– to sleep
– to run
Infinitives can be used in different ways:
1. As the subject of a sentence: To learn a new language is challenging.
2. As the object of a verb: She wants to travel the world.
3. To express purpose: He went to the store to buy groceries.
Future Tense with Infinitives
When we combine the future tense with infinitives, we often talk about plans, intentions, or actions that will take place in the future. This combination is quite common and can be formed in several ways.
Using “Will” with Infinitives
The simplest way to use the future tense with infinitives is by using “will” followed by the infinitive form of the verb.
Examples:
– I will need to study for the exam.
– She will try to finish her project by Friday.
– They will decide to join us later.
In these sentences, “will” indicates the future tense, and the infinitive verb phrase (“to study,” “to finish,” “to join”) specifies the action that will take place.
Using “Going to” with Infinitives
Another common way to express the future tense is by using the phrase “going to” followed by the base form of the verb. This structure is often used to express plans or intentions.
Formula: [ text{Subject} + text{am/is/are} + text{going to} + text{base form of the verb} ]
Examples:
– I am going to start to learn French next month.
– She is going to try to cook a new recipe.
– They are going to plan to visit their grandparents.
In these sentences, “am/is/are going to” indicates the future action, and the infinitive verb phrase (“to learn,” “to cook,” “to visit”) specifies the action that will take place.
Expressing Purpose with Infinitives in Future Tense
Infinitives can also be used to express the purpose of a future action. This is often done by using “in order to” or simply “to” followed by the base form of the verb.
Examples:
– I will study hard to pass the test.
– She is going to the store to buy some groceries.
– They will work overtime in order to finish the project.
In these sentences, the infinitive verb phrase (“to pass,” “to buy,” “in order to finish”) explains the purpose of the future action.
Using Modal Verbs in Future Tense with Infinitives
Modal verbs like “shall,” “might,” “could,” and “should” can also be used to form the future tense. These verbs add a layer of meaning, such as possibility, suggestion, or obligation, to the future action.
Examples:
– I shall try to complete the assignment by tomorrow.
– She might decide to join us for dinner.
– They could start to work on the project next week.
In these sentences, the modal verb (“shall,” “might,” “could”) indicates the future action, and the infinitive verb phrase (“to complete,” “to join,” “to work”) specifies the action that will take place.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Learning to use the future tense with infinitives can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
Confusing Infinitives with Gerunds
Infinitives and gerunds (verbs ending in -ing) can sometimes be confusing. Remember that infinitives are the base form of the verb, often preceded by “to,” while gerunds are verbs that function as nouns.
Incorrect: I will start learning to play the piano.
Correct: I will start to learn to play the piano.
Incorrect Use of Modal Verbs
Modal verbs can change the meaning of a sentence, so it is important to use them correctly. Make sure to pair the modal verb with the base form of the main verb.
Incorrect: She might to go to the party.
Correct: She might go to the party.
Forgetting the “To” in Infinitives
Sometimes learners forget to include the “to” in infinitives, especially when using phrases like “going to.”
Incorrect: I am going start my homework.
Correct: I am going to start my homework.
Practical Tips for Mastering Future Tense with Infinitives
Here are some practical tips to help you master the future tense with infinitives:
Practice with Real-Life Scenarios
Think about your future plans, intentions, and actions. Write sentences or short paragraphs using the future tense with infinitives. For example, describe what you will do next weekend or your plans for the next holiday.
Use Language Learning Apps
There are many language learning apps and websites that offer exercises and quizzes to practice the future tense and infinitives. These tools can provide immediate feedback and help reinforce your understanding.
Read and Listen to English Content
Expose yourself to English content, such as books, articles, podcasts, and movies. Pay attention to how native speakers use the future tense with infinitives. This will help you understand the context and usage better.
Engage in Conversations
Practice speaking with native speakers or fellow language learners. Try to incorporate the future tense with infinitives in your conversations. This will help you become more comfortable and confident in using this grammatical structure.
Conclusion
The future tense with infinitives is a powerful tool in the English language that allows you to express plans, intentions, and actions that will take place in the future. By understanding the basic structure, practicing with real-life scenarios, and using language learning resources, you can master this aspect of English grammar.
Remember, the key to mastering any language is consistent practice and exposure. Keep practicing, and soon you will find yourself using the future tense with infinitives effortlessly. Happy learning!
