How to Use Infinitives? The Ultimate Guide for Beginners!

Infinitives Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide with Simple Examples

What is an Infinitive?

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually with “to” in front of it. It is not limited by tense or subject.

Examples:

to eat, to sleep, to read, to write

Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence. Let’s explore how to use them correctly!

Types of Infinitives

1. Full Infinitive (To + Base Verb)

This is the most common form of infinitives.

Examples:

1. I love to read books. (used as a noun)
2. She wants to learn English. (used as a noun)

2. Bare Infinitive (Base Verb without “to”)

Sometimes, infinitives appear without “to” after certain verbs.

Examples:

1. I heard her sing a song.
2. You should study hard.

Bare infinitives are often used after modal verbs like can, should, must, will, might, may, could, etc.

Functions of Infinitives in English

1. Infinitives as Nouns

Infinitives can function as subjects, objects, or subject complements in a sentence.

A) Infinitives as Subjects

When an infinitive acts as a subject, it tells what the sentence is about.

Examples:

• To learn English is important. (Infinitive as the subject)
• To travel is my dream.

B) Infinitives as Objects

Some verbs take an infinitive as an object.

Examples:

1. She wants to visit Paris.
2. He decided to leave early.

C) Infinitives as Subject Complements

An infinitive can follow a linking verb (is, was, were) to complete the subject.

Examples:

1. My goal is to become a doctor.
2. His dream was to win the championship.

2. Infinitives as Adjectives

Infinitives can describe a noun, just like an adjective.

Examples:

1. She has a lot of work to do. (to do modifies "work")
2. This is the best way to learn English. (to learn modifies "way")
3. He is looking for a place to stay. (to stay modifies "place")

3. Infinitives as Adverbs

Infinitives can modify verbs, adjectives, or entire sentences by answering why, how, when, or in what way something happens.

Examples:

1. She studies hard to pass the exam. (modifies "studies" – tells why she studies)
2. He left early to catch the bus. (modifies "left" – tells why he left)
3. I am happy to help. (modifies "happy" – explains why I am happy)

How to Use Infinitives in Sentences?

1. Infinitives as Subjects

When an infinitive is the subject of a sentence, it tells what the sentence is about.

Examples:

1. To travel is my dream.
2. To eat healthy is important.

2. Infinitives as Objects

Infinitives can act as objects after certain verbs.

Examples:

1. She decided to move to a new city.
2. He hopes to get a new job.

3. Infinitives After Adjectives

Infinitives can follow adjectives to explain reasons or situations.

Examples:

1. I am happy to see you.
2. She was surprised to hear the news.

4. Infinitives After Certain Verbs

Some verbs are always followed by “to” + base verb.

Examples:

1. I need to finish my homework.
2. They agreed to help us.

5. Infinitives to Express Purpose (Why?)

Infinitives can explain the purpose of an action (answering why?).

Examples:

1. I study hard to pass the exam.
2. She left early to catch the train.

Common Mistakes with Infinitives

Incorrect: She suggested to go to the park.

Correct: She suggested going to the park. (Some verbs use gerunds instead of infinitives.)

Incorrect: I enjoy to play football.

Correct: I enjoy playing football. (“Enjoy” is followed by a gerund, not an infinitive.)

Practice Sentences

Try to complete these sentences using the correct infinitive form:

1. She plans _____ (start) a new business.
2. He promised _____ (help) me.
3. I am excited _____ (meet) my friends.

(Answers: to start, to help, to meet)

Final Thoughts

Infinitives are simple yet powerful in English. They help express ideas clearly and make sentences more natural. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll use them confidently!

FAQ: About Infinitives

1. What is the difference between an infinitive and a gerund?

An infinitive is the base form of a verb with to (e.g., to read), while a gerund is the -ing form of a verb used as a noun (e.g., reading).

2. When should I use a bare infinitive instead of a full infinitive?

A bare infinitive (without to) is used after modal verbs (e.g., can, should, must), and some verbs like let, make, hear, see (e.g., I saw her dance).

3. Can an infinitive be the subject of a sentence?

Yes! Example: To learn English is fun.

4. Which verbs are always followed by infinitives?

Some common verbs that take infinitives include want, need, decide, agree, refuse, plan, promise, hope, learn.

5. Can infinitives be used after adjectives?

Yes! Example: She is happy to help.

6. What is the function of an infinitive in a sentence?

Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. Example: He came to help. (to help modifies came as an adverb.)

7. How can I practice using infinitives?

Try writing sentences using different types of infinitives. Use exercises and quizzes to test yourself.