Infinitives: Understanding the Versatile Verb Form

Overview

An infinitive is the most basic form of a verb, typically appearing with the word ‘to’. For example, ‘to run’, ‘to eat’, ‘to think’. However, the ‘to’ can sometimes be omitted, especially after modal verbs (e.g., ‘can go’, ‘will see’).

Contents

Overview Key Concepts Deep Dive: Infinitive Phrases Applications in Grammar Challenges & Misconceptions FAQs What is the base form of a verb?When can ‘to’ be omitted from an infinitive?

Key Concepts

Infinitives are incredibly versatile and can function in three main ways within a sentence:

As Nouns: They can act as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence. Example: ‘To err is human.’ (Subject)
As Adjectives: They modify nouns or pronouns. Example: ‘I have a book to read.’ (Modifies ‘book’)
As Adverbs: They modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, often explaining purpose. Example: ‘She went to the store to buy milk.’ (Explains purpose of going)

Deep Dive: Infinitive Phrases

An infinitive phrase includes the infinitive itself, plus any modifiers or objects associated with it. These phrases function as a single part of speech.

Example: ‘He wants to learn Spanish quickly.’ The entire phrase ‘to learn Spanish quickly’ acts as the direct object of ‘wants’.

Applications in Grammar

Infinitives are essential for expressing a wide range of ideas:

Expressing desires and intentions: ‘I want to travel.’
Indicating purpose: ‘He studied to pass the exam.’
Completing the meaning of certain verbs: ‘She seems to be happy.’
Forming structures with adjectives: ‘It’s important to listen.’

Challenges & Misconceptions

A common point of confusion is the split infinitive, where an adverb is placed between ‘to’ and the verb (e.g., ‘to boldly go’). While historically discouraged, it is now widely accepted in modern English.

Another is distinguishing infinitive use from gerunds (verb forms ending in -ing used as nouns). The context and the verb preceding them often clarify the correct usage.