The infinitive is a fundamental part of English grammar that every language learner must master to achieve fluency. Understanding how to use infinitives correctly can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively and naturally. This article will delve into what infinitives are, their various forms, and how they are used in different contexts.
What is an Infinitive?
An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by the word “to.” For example, in the phrase “to eat,” “to” is the infinitive marker, and “eat” is the base form of the verb. Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.
Basic Structure
The most common form of the infinitive is the “to-infinitive,” which consists of “to” followed by the base form of the verb:
– to run
– to jump
– to be
However, there is also the “bare infinitive,” which is the base form of the verb without “to”:
– run
– jump
– be
The choice between using a “to-infinitive” and a “bare infinitive” depends on various grammatical rules and the specific context in which the verb is used.
Uses of Infinitives
Infinitives can be used in multiple ways in English. Below are some common uses:
1. Infinitives as Subjects
Infinitives can act as the subject of a sentence. While this is more common in formal writing, it is still a useful construction to understand.
– To travel is my passion.
– To learn a new language takes time and effort.
In these sentences, the infinitives “to travel” and “to learn” function as the subjects of the sentences.
2. Infinitives as Objects
Infinitives can also serve as the object of a verb. This is one of the most common uses of infinitives.
– I want to eat.
– She loves to dance.
In these examples, “to eat” and “to dance” are the objects of the verbs “want” and “loves,” respectively.
3. Infinitives after Certain Verbs
Certain verbs are followed by infinitives. These are often verbs that express a desire, plan, or intent.
– I hope to see you soon.
– They decided to go to the beach.
Common verbs that are followed by infinitives include: hope, decide, plan, want, need, and expect.
4. Infinitives after Adjectives
Infinitives can follow adjectives to provide more information about a subject.
– I am happy to help.
– She is eager to learn.
In these sentences, the infinitives “to help” and “to learn” follow the adjectives “happy” and “eager,” adding more detail to the sentences.
5. Infinitives to Express Purpose
Infinitives are often used to express the purpose of an action.
– She went to the store to buy groceries.
– He studied hard to pass the exam.
In these examples, the infinitives “to buy” and “to pass” explain the purpose of the actions “went to the store” and “studied hard.”
6. Infinitives as Complements
Infinitives can act as complements to adjectives and nouns, providing additional information.
– It is important to read the instructions carefully.
– The goal is to finish the project by Friday.
In these sentences, the infinitives “to read” and “to finish” serve as complements to the adjectives “important” and the noun “goal.”
Special Cases with Infinitives
1. Infinitive without “to” (Bare Infinitive)
The bare infinitive is used in specific contexts, such as after modal verbs, certain expressions, and some verbs of perception.
– She can swim.
– You must be joking.
– I saw him leave the house.
In these sentences, the verbs “swim,” “be,” and “leave” are bare infinitives following the modal verbs “can” and “must,” and the verb of perception “saw.”
2. Split Infinitives
A split infinitive occurs when an adverb is placed between “to” and the verb. While traditionally considered grammatically incorrect, split infinitives are increasingly accepted in modern English for clarity or emphasis.
– She wants to really understand the topic.
– He decided to immediately respond to the email.
In these examples, the adverbs “really” and “immediately” split the infinitives “to understand” and “to respond.”
3. Infinitive Phrases
An infinitive phrase consists of the infinitive verb and its complements and modifiers. These phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.
– To win the game, the team practiced daily. (adverb)
– Her goal is to become a doctor. (noun)
– The best way to learn is by doing. (adjective)
In these sentences, the infinitive phrases “to win the game,” “to become a doctor,” and “to learn” serve different grammatical roles.
Common Mistakes with Infinitives
1. Confusing Gerunds and Infinitives
One common mistake is confusing when to use a gerund (verb + ing) and when to use an infinitive. Some verbs can be followed by either a gerund or an infinitive, but the meaning changes.
– I stopped to smoke. (I stopped what I was doing in order to smoke.)
– I stopped smoking. (I quit the habit of smoking.)
2. Incorrect Use After Certain Verbs
Some verbs are followed by a gerund, not an infinitive, and vice versa. It’s crucial to learn which verbs require which form.
– I enjoy reading. (Correct)
– I enjoy to read. (Incorrect)
3. Overusing Split Infinitives
While split infinitives are more accepted today, overusing them can make your writing less formal and harder to read. Aim to split the infinitive only when it adds clarity or emphasis.
– She decided to quickly leave. (Acceptable)
– She decided to leave quickly. (Better)
Practical Tips for Mastering Infinitives
1. Practice with Common Verbs
Make a list of common verbs that are followed by infinitives and practice using them in sentences.
– He plans to visit his family.
– They hope to travel next year.
2. Read and Listen
Expose yourself to native English by reading books, articles, and listening to podcasts or watching movies. Pay attention to how infinitives are used.
– Notice sentences like: “She wants to become a lawyer,” and “They need to finish their work.”
3. Write Regularly
Practice writing essays, journal entries, or even social media posts using infinitives. This will help reinforce their correct usage.
– For example, write about your weekend plans: “I plan to visit the museum and hope to see the new exhibit.”
4. Use Language Learning Apps
Many language learning apps offer exercises focused on infinitives. These can provide immediate feedback and help you correct mistakes.
– Apps like Duolingo or Babbel can be particularly useful.
5. Speak with Native Speakers
Engage in conversations with native speakers or language exchange partners. This real-life practice can be invaluable.
– Ask questions like, “What do you like to do in your free time?” and pay attention to their responses.
Advanced Infinitive Structures
1. Perfect Infinitive
The perfect infinitive is formed with “to have” + past participle. It is used to express an action that was supposed to happen before another action.
– She was happy to have finished her work early.
– He claimed to have seen the movie already.
2. Passive Infinitive
The passive infinitive is formed with “to be” + past participle. It is used when the focus is on the action being done to the subject.
– The book is to be returned by Friday.
– The house needs to be cleaned.
3. Continuous Infinitive
The continuous infinitive is formed with “to be” + present participle. It is used to emphasize the ongoing nature of an action.
– She seems to be studying all the time.
– They appear to be waiting for someone.
Infinitives in Different Tenses
Infinitives can also be used to form different tenses, which can add more depth to your sentences.
1. Present Infinitive
The present infinitive is the most common form and is used to express actions that are happening now or will happen in the future.
– I want to eat now.
– She plans to visit next week.
2. Perfect Infinitive
As previously mentioned, the perfect infinitive (to have + past participle) is used to express actions that were supposed to happen before another action.
– I would like to have finished my homework by now.
– She seems to have left already.
3. Continuous Infinitive
The continuous infinitive (to be + present participle) is used to emphasize the ongoing nature of an action.
– They seem to be enjoying the show.
– He appears to be working late.
4. Perfect Continuous Infinitive
The perfect continuous infinitive (to have been + present participle) is used to express an action that was ongoing and supposed to happen before another action.
– She claims to have been working on the project all night.
– They seem to have been waiting for hours.
Infinitives with Modal Verbs
Modal verbs like can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would are often followed by the bare infinitive. These combinations can express ability, possibility, necessity, or other conditions.
1. Ability
– She can sing very well.
– He could run faster than anyone else.
2. Possibility
– It might rain later.
– You may leave if you wish.
3. Necessity
– You must finish your homework.
– We should go now.
4. Future Intentions
– I will call you tomorrow.
– They would like to join us.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of infinitives is crucial for achieving fluency in English. From functioning as subjects and objects to expressing purpose and following certain verbs, infinitives are versatile and widely used. Understanding the different forms, special cases, and common mistakes will help you use infinitives correctly and naturally.
By practicing regularly, reading and listening to native English, writing, using language learning apps, and engaging in conversations, you can improve your understanding and usage of infinitives. Advanced structures like perfect, passive, and continuous infinitives add depth to your language skills, allowing you to express more complex ideas.
Remember, language learning is a journey, and mastering infinitives is an essential part of that journey. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll find yourself using infinitives effortlessly in your everyday communication.
