Mastering the Infinitive in English Grammar Explained

Exploring English grammar reveals the infinitive, a crucial and adaptable element that enhances sentence construction in various ways. Infinitives can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs, allowing for greater flexibility in how we express ideas. They come in two varieties: the to-infinitive and the bare infinitive. Infinitives often follow specific verbs, adjectives, and nouns, playing an essential role in conveying actions, intentions, and states of being.

This article delves into different grammatical forms, their diverse applications, and frequent pitfalls, serving as a vital resource for both students and instructors eager to enhance their mastery of English grammar.

What is an infinitive?

The English infinitive is the fundamental form of a verb, typically introduced by “to.” For instance, in “to learn,” the verb “learn” represents the infinitive. This form is not limited by tense, number, or mood, which makes it adaptable and neutral for diverse contexts. Infinitives can convey purpose, intent, or necessity and frequently follow verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Their versatile nature allows them to seamlessly integrate into sentences, fulfilling various grammatical roles and improving clarity and precision in communication.

Forms of English infinitives

To-infinitive

The to-infinitive is the most prevalent form of the English infinitive, made up of “to” followed by the base verb. This structure plays a crucial role in English, as it conveys purpose, intention, or necessity. For example:

• To read
• To write
• To understand

Bare infinitive

The bare infinitive, which omits the word “to,” commonly follows modal verbs like can, may, and should, as well as specific verbs such as “make” and “let.” For instance:

• After modal verbs: She can sing beautifully.
• After certain verbs: They let him go early.

Bare infinitives play a crucial role when paired with verbs of perception like “see,” “hear,” and “feel.” They help convey actions that are directly witnessed or sensed, adding clarity to our descriptions of experiences.

Uses of the infinitive

1. **Using Infinitives as Subjects:** In the sentence “To travel around the world is my dream,” the phrase “to travel” serves as the subject.
2. As the object of a verb: “She wants to learn Spanish.” Here, “to learn” is the object of the verb “wants.”
3. As an adjective: “He has a report to write.” The infinitive “to write” describes the noun “report.”
4. As an adverb: “She paused to think.” In this case, “to think” explains why she paused.
5. After certain adjectives: “It’s difficult to understand.” “To understand” complements the adjective “difficult.”
6. With question words: “I don’t know what to say.” The infinitive “to say” follows the question word “what.”

English verbs with infinitives and nouns

Some English verbs, such as “need,” “want,” and “like,” can be paired with either an infinitive or a noun, offering versatility in sentence construction. This flexibility enables speakers to express their desires, necessities, and preferences in diverse and engaging ways.

Structure

• subject + need/want/like + infinitive
• subject + need/want/like + noun

Examples

• We want some fish.
• I want to buy some fish.
• They need to do the dishes.
• I need to call her later.
• Does she want to do her homework with us?
• She doesn’t need to do her homework today.
• I like to read.
• She likes books.

Common mistakes

• Incorrect: I need do the dishes.
• Correct: I need to do the dishes.

Infinitives after adjectives

Infinitives frequently accompany adjectives to convey a specific state or quality. In these constructions, “it” is often used as the subject for emphasis, drawing attention to the quality or condition highlighted by the adjective.

Structure: subject (“it”) + “be” + adjective + “to” + verb

Examples

• Some people think it’s not easy to pass a language exam.
• It’s important to practice interviewing for a job.
• Be sure to ask Jane if she’ll come with us.
• It’s wonderful to see you again!

Common mistakes

• Incorrect: It’s not easy pass a language exam.
• Correct: It’s not easy to pass a language exam.

Infinitives after verbs and nouns

Infinitives that follow verbs or nouns form phrases that specify particular actions or abilities, enhancing the clarity and richness of the sentence.

Structure: subject + verb + (noun) + “to” + verb

Examples

• Amy wanted to buy her own home.
• Amy made a decision to buy a condo instead.
• She knows she has the ability to make more money, but she is afraid to try to find a new job.
• She can’t afford to buy one on her current salary.
• She can’t seem to save enough money.

Common mistakes

• Incorrect: She wanted buy her own home.
• Correct: She wanted to buy her own home.

Advanced infinitive structures

Perfect infinitives

Perfect infinitives, which pair with verbs such as “appear” and “seem,” are effective for conveying potential outcomes or actions that might have taken place in the past.

Structure: “appear/seem” + “to have” + past participle

Examples

• He appears to have lost his wallet.
• She seems to have gotten lost.

Passive infinitives

Passive infinitives highlight possibilities or correctness without identifying the agent behind the action. By shifting the focus away from the doer, they emphasize the action or state itself, making them ideal for discussing outcomes or conditions.

Structure: “to be” + past participle

Examples

• It’s scheduled to be streamed this weekend.
• Your dog needs to be told that he is not allowed to bark after 6 PM.

Infinitives after perception/belief verbs

Use case: describe complex situations.

Structure: Subject + verb of perception/belief + infinitive verb + phrase/clause

Examples

• It seems to mean that politicians are always dishonest.
• He’s supposed to be very honest.

Perfect progressive infinitives

Use case: emphasize actions over time.

Structure: subject + verb of perception/belief + “to have been” + present participle (“-ing”)

Examples

• Bullying is thought to have been increasing recently.
• It’s also known to have been harming those who witness it.

Conclusion

The infinitive is a fundamental building block of English grammar, known for its versatility and neutrality. By mastering the various forms and uses of infinitives, learners can significantly improve their language skills, resulting in more vibrant and accurate speech and writing. English tutors are instrumental in this process, providing essential guidance and practice to help students gain a deep understanding of this crucial grammatical component.