Contents
The concept of the bare infinitive is essential in mastering English grammar. This reference covers what the bare infinitive is and its various uses. It also includes guidelines on using the zero infinitive effectively. Learn how to use the zero infinitive with helpful grammar rules, an informative video, example sentences, and an ESL picture. You’ll find valuable tips to enhance your understanding, all in a clear and concise format.
Bare Infinitive
What is the Bare Infinitive?
The zero (bare) infinitive is a type of complement with an infinitive verb form that’s not preceded by the particle to. Also known as the bare infinitive.
Uses of the Bare Infinitive
1. After Modal Auxiliary Verbs
Will, shall, would, could, can (but not be able to), may, might, must (but not have to), should (but not ought to), and needn’t, (but not need to, which behaves like a normal verb).
Examples:
My sister could play the piano when she was five.
You must get up earlier in the morning.
I wonder if I might have some more soup.
2. After the Object after Certain Verbs, such as hear, see, make, let
Examples:
He saw her fall from the cliff.
She made her kids tidy their beds.
Mary let me use her new laptop.
3. After Verbal Idioms would rather and had better
Examples:
I’d rather stay at home than go out tonight.
It’s cold. The children had better wear their coats.
4. Used with Why
The question word why is followed by the zero infinitive when making suggestions.
Bare infinitive examples:
Why wait until tomorrow?
Why leave before the end of the match?
Why not buy a new car?
Bare Infinitive vs. Full Infinitive
| Bare Infinitive | Full Infinitive |
|---|---|
| Base form of the verb (play, eat) | “to” + base form (to play, to eat) |
| Used after modal verbs, perception verbs, “let,” “make” | Used after certain verbs, adjectives, and to show purpose |
| Example: She can dance. | Example: She wants to dance. |
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