Understanding the nuances of prepositions can be one of the more challenging aspects of learning English, especially when they are used in combination with infinitive verbs. Infinitive verbs, which are the base form of a verb usually preceded by “to” (e.g., to run, to eat, to be), can sometimes be paired with prepositions to convey different meanings or grammatical structures. This article aims to shed light on the intricacies of using prepositions with infinitive verbs, providing language learners with practical tips and examples to master this aspect of English grammar.
What is an Infinitive Verb?
Before diving into the intricacies of prepositions, it’s crucial to understand what an infinitive verb is. An infinitive verb is the base form of a verb, often preceded by the word “to.” For example, “to go,” “to see,” and “to learn” are all infinitive verbs. Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.
Infinitives as Nouns
When infinitives function as nouns, they can act as the subject or object of a sentence. For instance:
– To swim is relaxing. (subject)
– She likes to read. (object)
Infinitives as Adjectives
Infinitives can also describe nouns, making them function as adjectives:
– She has a lot of work to do.
– There is nothing to worry about.
Infinitives as Adverbs
Lastly, infinitives can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, functioning as adverbs:
– He came to help.
– She was eager to learn.
Prepositions and Infinitive Verbs
In English, prepositions are words used to link nouns, pronouns, or phrases to other words within a sentence. Common prepositions include words like “in,” “on,” “at,” “by,” and “with.” When combined with infinitive verbs, prepositions can alter the meaning or grammatical structure of a sentence.
It’s essential to note that in English, prepositions are typically followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb) rather than an infinitive. However, there are specific constructions and exceptions where an infinitive follows a preposition. Understanding these can significantly enhance your grasp of English grammar.
Common Constructions
There are several common constructions where prepositions and infinitive verbs are used together. Let’s explore a few of these:
1. Adjective + Preposition + Infinitive
Certain adjectives are commonly followed by a preposition and an infinitive verb. These constructions often describe emotions, attitudes, or states of being:
– I am happy to help.
– She was eager to learn.
– He is ready to leave.
In these examples, the adjective (happy, eager, ready) is followed by the preposition “to” and an infinitive verb (help, learn, leave).
2. Noun + Preposition + Infinitive
Similar to adjectives, some nouns are often paired with prepositions and infinitive verbs:
– He has a tendency to forget things.
– There is a need to improve the system.
– She has a desire to succeed.
In these cases, the noun (tendency, need, desire) is followed by the preposition “to” and an infinitive verb (forget, improve, succeed).
3. Verb + Preposition + Infinitive
Certain verbs can also be followed by prepositions and infinitive verbs. These constructions often describe the purpose or intent of an action:
– He came to talk to us.
– She paused to think.
– They waited to see what would happen.
In these sentences, the verb (came, paused, waited) is followed by the preposition “to” and an infinitive verb (talk, think, see).
Exceptions and Special Cases
While the above constructions are relatively straightforward, there are exceptions and special cases where prepositions and infinitive verbs interact uniquely.
Infinitive Without ‘to’
In some cases, the infinitive verb appears without the “to” preposition. This often occurs after certain verbs, such as make, let, see, hear, feel, and help:
– She made him apologize.
– I heard her sing.
– Let him go.
In these examples, the verbs (made, heard, let) are followed directly by the base form of the verb (apologize, sing, go) without the “to” preposition.
Infinitive After Certain Prepositions
While it’s more common for prepositions to be followed by gerunds, certain prepositions can be followed by infinitive verbs in specific contexts. Here are a few examples:
1. Except
The preposition “except” can be followed by an infinitive verb, usually in negative contexts:
– He did everything except (to) clean the kitchen.
– She had no choice except to leave.
2. But
The preposition “but” can also be followed by an infinitive verb, typically in negative or contrasting contexts:
– There’s nothing left but to wait.
– He had no option but to comply.
3. Than
In comparative structures, the preposition “than” can be followed by an infinitive verb:
– It was easier than to explain everything.
– She would rather walk than to take a taxi.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding the rules and exceptions for using prepositions with infinitive verbs can help you avoid common mistakes. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Avoid Mixing Gerunds and Infinitives
One common mistake is mixing gerunds and infinitives incorrectly. Remember that prepositions are typically followed by gerunds, not infinitives. For example:
– Incorrect: She is interested to learn new things.
– Correct: She is interested in learning new things.
In this case, the preposition “in” should be followed by the gerund “learning,” not the infinitive “to learn.”
2. Be Mindful of Context
The context in which a preposition and infinitive verb are used can affect their meaning. Pay attention to the overall structure and meaning of the sentence to ensure that the preposition and infinitive verb are appropriate. For example:
– Incorrect: He is too tired for to go to the party.
– Correct: He is too tired to go to the party.
In this case, the preposition “for” is unnecessary and should be omitted.
3. Use Infinitives After Certain Adjectives and Nouns
When using adjectives or nouns that commonly pair with infinitive verbs, ensure that you use the correct preposition “to” before the infinitive. For example:
– Incorrect: She has a desire of to learn.
– Correct: She has a desire to learn.
In this case, the preposition “of” is incorrect and should be replaced with “to.”
Practice and Application
The best way to master using prepositions with infinitive verbs is through practice and application. Here are some exercises and activities to help you reinforce your understanding:
1. Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences with the correct preposition and infinitive verb:
1. She was eager __________ (to learn) new skills.
2. He came __________ (to talk) to the manager.
3. There’s nothing left __________ (but to wait).
4. It was easier __________ (than to explain) everything.
5. He has a tendency __________ (to forget) things.
2. Error Correction
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences:
1. She is interested to learn new things.
2. He is too tired for to go to the party.
3. She has a desire of to learn.
4. He did everything except clean the kitchen.
5. He made him to apologize.
3. Writing Practice
Write a short paragraph describing a recent experience or event, using at least five sentences that include prepositions and infinitive verbs. Pay attention to the correct usage of prepositions and infinitive verbs in your writing.
Conclusion
Using prepositions with infinitive verbs in English can be challenging, but with practice and a clear understanding of the rules and exceptions, language learners can master this aspect of grammar. Remember that prepositions are typically followed by gerunds, but certain constructions and special cases allow for infinitive verbs. By paying attention to context and practicing regularly, you can improve your proficiency in using prepositions with infinitive verbs and enhance your overall command of the English language.
