Infinitive Verb: Definition, Rules, Forms, Examples and Sentences
Share
Infinitive verbs are an important part of English grammar. It helps us express purpose, intention, reason, and ideas clearly. Infinitives are commonly used in both spoken and written English. Learning infinitive verbs improves sentence structure and helps learners understand advanced grammar concepts easily. This topic is especially useful for students preparing for school exams and competitive English tests.
What is Infinitive Verb?
An infinitive verb is the basic form of a verb. It usually appears with the word “to”, but in some cases, it appears without “to.” Infinitives do not act as the main verb of a sentence. Understanding infinitive verb rules helps learners create clear and meaningful sentences.
Infinitive Verb Definition
An infinitive verb is the base form of a verb, generally preceded by “to”, such as to read, to write, or to play. When the verb appears without “to,” it is called a bare infinitive. Infinitives can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence, making them a flexible part of speech.
Types of Infinitives Verb
Infinitives appear in two main forms: bare infinitives and full infinitives. Both types do not function as the primary verb. Understanding these helps you use the infinitive verb with to correctly.
Bare Infinitive
These are verbs used in their simplest form, without "to." They often follow certain verbs like "see," "watch," "hear," "feel," and modal verbs such as "can," "should," or "must."
-
Example: "Let me know your thoughts."
-
Example: "I can swim."
Full Infinitives
Full infinitives are verb forms that begin with "to." Many verbs are consistently followed by a full infinitive. This is a common infinitive verb form.
-
Example: "I want to learn."
-
Example: "She needs to study."
Here is a list of some common verbs that often take the full infinitive:
| Verbs Taking Full Infinitives |
|---|
| Agree, Need, Ought, Care |
| Beg, Appear, Choose, Resolve |
| Ensure, Decide, Plan, Wish |
| Want, Aim, Mean, Like |
| Love, Hate, Deserve, Learn |
| Proceed, Attempt, Claim, Forget |
| Remember, Demand, Long, Promise |
| Threaten, Hesitate, Expect |
| Hope, Prepare, Offer, Seem |
| Refuse, Tend |
Functions of an Infinitive Verb
An infinitive verb can play various roles in a sentence. It can act as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb. These functions help build complex infinitive verb sentences.
Infinitives as Nouns
When an infinitive acts as a noun, it typically answers the question "what." It can serve as the subject or the object of a verb.
-
Example: "To err is human." (Subject)
-
Example: "All I wanted was to rest." (Object)
Infinitives as Adjectives
Infinitives modify nouns when they function as adjectives. They provide more detail about the noun.
-
Example: "We need someone to help us."
-
Example: "I have tasks to complete."
Infinitives as Adverbs
Acting as adverbs, infinitives describe why an action happens. They add information to verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
-
Example: "I came to see you." (Explains why I came)
-
Example: "She was happy to sing." (Explains why she was happy)
Difference from Participles and Gerunds
Infinitives differ from participles and gerunds in their form and function. This table highlights their main differences.
| Difference between Participles and Gerunds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Infinitives | Participles | Gerunds |
| Acts as noun, adverb, or adjective. | Acts as adjectives; forms perfect tenses. | Acts as nouns. |
| Base verb form (bare) or 'to' + base verb (full). | Verb + '-ing' (present) or '-ed'/-'d' (past). | Verb + '-ing'. |
| Example: "I plan to move." | Example: "They have learnt." | Example: "Listening calms the mind." |
Key Rules of Infinitive Verb
Following the infinitive verb rules helps maintain grammatical accuracy.
Continuous Infinitives
A continuous infinitive uses "to be" followed by the present participle (verb + -ing). This infinitive verb form shows an ongoing action.
-
Example: "You must be joking."
-
Example: "He expects to be waiting for hours."
Split Infinitives
A split infinitive places an adverb between "to" and the base verb. This structure often adds emphasis.
-
Example: "We aim to greatly improve services."
-
Example: "Students need to clearly present ideas."
Passive Infinitives
A passive infinitive is formed using "to be" followed by the past participle. It shows that the subject receives the action.
-
Example: "I wish to be given a chance."
-
Example: "Lights need to be turned off."
Infinitive Verb Phrases
Infinitive verb phrases include the infinitive verb along with objects or modifiers.
Examples:
-
to complete the assignment
-
to help others in need
-
to learn English grammar
These phrases add meaning and detail to sentences.
Infinitive Verb Examples
Here are some clear infinitive verb examples:
-
I hope to travel abroad.
-
She decided to quit the job.
-
He can drive well.
-
They want to be successful.