Infinitive

Understanding the Infinitive

The infinitive is the most basic form of a verb, typically appearing with the particle ‘to’ (e.g., ‘to run’, ‘to eat’). It’s a versatile part of speech that can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb within a sentence.

Key Concepts

• Base Form: The verb without any inflection (e.g., ‘go’, ‘see’, ‘think’).
• ‘To’ Infinitive: The infinitive preceded by ‘to’ (e.g., ‘to play’).
• Bare Infinitive: The infinitive without ‘to’ (e.g., ‘play’ after ‘let’ or ‘make’).

Functions of the Infinitive

The infinitive can act in several ways:

• As a Noun: ‘To swim’ is good exercise. (Subject) I enjoy ‘to read’. (Object)
• As an Adjective: I have a book to read. (Modifies ‘book’)
• As an Adverb: She came here to study. (Modifies ‘came’)

Deep Dive: ‘To’ vs. Bare Infinitive

The choice between the ‘to’ infinitive and the bare infinitive depends on the preceding verb or construction. Verbs like ‘want’, ‘need’, and ‘decide’ take the ‘to’ infinitive. Verbs like ‘let’, ‘make’, ‘help’, and modal verbs (‘can’, ‘will’) are followed by the bare infinitive.

Applications in Grammar

Infinitives are crucial for expressing purpose, desire, and obligation. They are also used in various idiomatic expressions and complex sentence structures, adding clarity and conciseness.

Challenges and Misconceptions

A common misconception is that infinitives always appear with ‘to’. Understanding the bare infinitive is key. Another challenge is correctly identifying the function of an infinitive phrase within a sentence.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between an infinitive and a gerund?A: A gerund is also a verb form ending in ‘-ing’ but functions solely as a noun, whereas an infinitive can be a noun, adjective, or adverb.

Q: When do I use a bare infinitive?A: Typically after verbs of perception (see, hear), causative verbs (let, make), and modal verbs.