Learn how to use Infinitives in English with rules and examples.
What is a To-Infinitive?
A to-infinitive is a verbal consisting of to + a verb, and it acts like a subject, direct object, subject complement, adjective, or adverb in a sentence. Infinitives are easy to identify because they’re written with to + a verb.
Example:
To give
To run
To wait
Although an infinitive is easy to locate because of the to + verb form, deciding what function it has in a sentence can sometimes be confusing.
Functions of Infinitives
We use the infinitive:
To indicate the purpose of an action
Example:
He bought some flowers to give to his wife.
I will lock the door to prevent theft.
As subject of the sentence
Example:
To wait seemed foolish when decisive action was required.
To swim in that sea may be dangerous.
As direct object of the sentence
Example:
I like to write in English.
Everyone wanted to go.
As subject complement
Example:
His ambition is to fly.
What is essential is to maintain a healthy diet.
As an adjective
Example:
This is the best time to practice.
I have some jeans to wash.
As an adverb
Example:
We must carefully observe to understand.
I can’t wait to see.
After an adjective
Subject + to be + adjective + (for/of someone) + to-infinitive + (rest of sentence)
Example:
It is important to be patient.
It is wonderful to have close friends.
After an object that is a noun or pronoun referring to a person
Example:
Can I ask you to help me with something?
I invited a friend to attend the ceremony.
Used with question word
Example:
Do you understand what to do?
Tell me when to press the button.
Grammar Rules to Master the Use of Infinitives | Picture
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