Infinitives in the English Grammar

Last updated on August 1, 2024 by Grammargeek

Infinitives are a key part of English grammar. They can be used in various forms like nouns, adjectives, and adverbs. In this reference, you will learn what an infinitive is and how to use it effectively in your sentences. The main sections covered include infinitives as nouns, adjectives, and adverbs.

You’ll also understand when to use infinitives, such as to indicate the purpose of an action or as the subject of a sentence. Additionally, examples and images will illustrate how to use infinitives correctly. You’ll find an infinitive verb list to deepen your knowledge.

What Is An Infinitive?

Infinitives
Infinitives – Created by 7ESL

Infinitives as Nouns

Keep in mind that a noun can be a person, place, or thing. When used as a subject or direct object in a sentence, an infinitive phrase acts as a noun. In such a case, the subject assumes the role of a verb, whereas the direct object is the receiver of the action of a verb.

Example:

  • I like to watch movies alone.

Here “like” is the verb.

“To watch” is the infinitive as it receives the action of the verb (to be liked).

“To watch” acts as a direct object of the sentence.

Here, the infinitive acts as a noun that expresses a thought.

  • To join hands with others is necessary.

In this sentence, “is” is the verb and “to join” is the infinitive as it answers the question about what is so necessary?

Here the infinitive phrase “to join” is the subject of the sentence.

This is an indication that the infinitive acts as a noun in this example.

Infinitives as Adjectives

An adjective is a word that describes more information about a noun. An infinitive acts as an adjective if it modifies or describes a noun in a sentence.

Example:

  • Joyce needs a table to read on.

Here “needs” is the verb, and “table” is the subject (noun).

“To read” is the infinitive, and it acts as an adjective.

Infinitives as Adverbs

An adverb is a word that modifies or describes an adjective, verb, or an adverb. It provides additional information regarding an adjective, verb, or adverb. At times, adverbs can answer the question “why.”

Here is an example:

  • The mourners were surprised to hear that the deceased had resurrected.

Here “to hear” is the infinitive. It gives additional information about the adjective “surprised.”

When to Use Infinitives

To indicate the purpose of an action:

  • He bought some flowers to give to his wife.
  • I will lock the door to prevent theft.

As the subject of the sentence:

  • To wait* seemed foolish when decisive action was required.*
  • To swim* in that sea may be dangerous.*

As the direct object of the sentence:

  • I like to write in English.
  • Everyone wanted to go.

As subject complement:

  • His ambition is to fly.
  • What is essential is to maintain a healthy diet.

As an adjective:

  • This is the best time to practice.
  • I have some jeans to wash.

As an adverb:

  • We must carefully observe to understand.
  • I can’t wait to see.

After an adjective:

  • 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:

  • Can I ask you to help me with something?
  • I invited a friend to attend the ceremony.

Used with the question word:

  • Do you understand what to do?
  • Tell me when to press the button.
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