Learning to use prepositions with infinitive verbs can be a challenging aspect of mastering English. Infinitive verbs, which are the base form of the verb preceded by “to” (e.g., to run, to eat, to think), are frequently used in English. However, when combined with prepositions, they can create complex structures that often puzzle language learners. In this article, we will delve into the rules, patterns, and common usages of prepositions with infinitive verbs to help you navigate this tricky area of English grammar.
Understanding Infinitive Verbs
Before we get into the nuances of using prepositions with infinitive verbs, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of what infinitive verbs are. An infinitive verb is the simplest form of a verb and is typically preceded by the word “to.” For example, in the phrases “to play,” “to read,” and “to write,” “play,” “read,” and “write” are infinitive verbs. Infinitives can serve various functions in a sentence, such as acting as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.
Infinitives as Nouns
When an infinitive acts as a noun, it can be the subject or the object of a sentence. For example:
– To swim is fun. (subject)
– She likes to read. (object)
Infinitives as Adjectives
Infinitives can also modify nouns, functioning as adjectives. For example:
– She has a book to read. (modifies “book”)
Infinitives as Adverbs
Infinitives can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, functioning as adverbs. For example:
– He went to the store to buy milk. (modifies “went”)
Prepositions and Their Functions
Prepositions are words that show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in the sentence. Common prepositions include “in,” “on,” “at,” “by,” “for,” “with,” “about,” and “to.” Prepositions typically indicate aspects such as time, place, direction, and manner.
Prepositions Indicating Time
– We will meet at noon.
– She has been here since morning.
Prepositions Indicating Place
– The book is on the table.
– He lives in New York.
Prepositions Indicating Direction
– They are going to the park.
– She walked through the forest.
Prepositions Indicating Manner
– He solved the problem with ease.
– She spoke in a whisper.
Combining Prepositions with Infinitive Verbs
The combination of prepositions with infinitive verbs can be particularly tricky. In English, certain prepositions are followed by gerunds (verbs ending in -ing) rather than infinitives. However, there are specific structures where prepositions are followed by infinitive verbs.
Common Structures with “For”
The preposition “for” is often used before an infinitive verb to indicate purpose or intention. The structure is typically as follows:
Subject + Verb + “for” + Object + Infinitive Verb
Examples:
– This book is for you to read.
– There’s a lot of work for us to do.
– He bought it for her to wear.
In these examples, the infinitive verb follows the preposition “for” to indicate the purpose or intention behind the action.
Common Structures with “To”
The preposition “to” is sometimes followed by an infinitive verb when it indicates direction or movement. This can be seen in the following examples:
– She went to the store to buy groceries.
– They traveled to Italy to explore the countryside.
– He moved to the city to find a job.
In these sentences, “to” serves a dual function: as a preposition indicating direction and as part of the infinitive verb that follows.
Common Structures with “In Order To” and “So As To”
“In order to” and “so as to” are phrases that are used to indicate purpose and are always followed by an infinitive verb. These phrases are often used in formal writing and speech.
Examples:
– She studied hard in order to pass the exam.
– He left early so as to avoid traffic.
Here, the phrases “in order to” and “so as to” introduce the purpose of the action.
Exceptions and Special Cases
While the above rules cover common usages, English is full of exceptions and special cases. One area that often causes confusion is when prepositions appear to be followed by infinitive verbs, but they actually introduce gerunds.
Prepositions Followed by Gerunds
Many prepositions in English are followed by gerunds rather than infinitive verbs. This is a common source of mistakes for learners. Here are a few examples:
– She is interested in learning new languages.
– They succeeded in solving the problem.
– He is good at playing the piano.
In these examples, the prepositions “in” and “at” are followed by gerunds (“learning,” “solving,” “playing”) rather than infinitive verbs.
Adjective + Preposition + Infinitive Structures
Certain adjectives are followed by prepositions and then by infinitive verbs. This structure often expresses a particular quality or state of being. Examples include:
– She is eager to learn.
– He is ready to start.
– They are happy to help.
In these cases, the infinitive verb follows the adjective-preposition combination to indicate an action related to the adjective.
Verbs Followed by Prepositions and Infinitive Verbs
Some verbs are typically followed by prepositions and then by infinitive verbs. These combinations often express purpose or necessity. Examples include:
– He arranged for the meeting to start early.
– She prepared for the guests to arrive.
– They waited for the bus to come.
In these sentences, the verbs “arranged,” “prepared,” and “waited” are followed by the preposition “for” and an infinitive verb, indicating the purpose or necessity of the action.
Practice and Application
To become proficient in using prepositions with infinitive verbs, practice is essential. Below are a few exercises and tips to help reinforce your understanding.
Exercise 1: Identifying Correct Usage
For each sentence below, choose the correct preposition to fill in the blank.
1. She is looking forward ___ (to/to) meeting you.
2. He is responsible ___ (for/for) organizing the event.
3. They are excited ___ (about/to) travel to Europe.
4. She is worried ___ (about/to) failing the test.
5. He is accustomed ___ (to/to) working late hours.
Answers:
1. to
2. for
3. to
4. about
5. to
Exercise 2: Creating Sentences
Create sentences using the following prompts:
1. A sentence with “for” followed by an infinitive verb.
2. A sentence with “to” indicating direction and followed by an infinitive verb.
3. A sentence with “in order to” followed by an infinitive verb.
4. A sentence with an adjective + preposition + infinitive verb structure.
5. A sentence with a verb followed by a preposition and then an infinitive verb.
Tips for Mastery
1. **Read Extensively**: Reading books, articles, and other written materials in English can help you see how prepositions and infinitive verbs are used in context.
2. **Practice Writing**: Write your own sentences and paragraphs using prepositions and infinitive verbs. This will help reinforce your understanding and improve your writing skills.
3. **Seek Feedback**: Ask teachers, native speakers, or language exchange partners to review your sentences and provide feedback.
4. **Use Grammar Resources**: Utilize grammar books, online resources, and language apps to study and practice prepositions and infinitive verbs.
Conclusion
Using prepositions with infinitive verbs in English can be challenging, but with a solid understanding of the rules and patterns, it becomes much more manageable. Remember that practice is key to mastering this aspect of English grammar. By reading, writing, and seeking feedback, you can improve your proficiency and confidence in using prepositions with infinitive verbs.
In summary, pay attention to common structures like “for” followed by an infinitive verb, “to” indicating direction, and phrases like “in order to” or “so as to” that introduce purpose. Be mindful of exceptions where prepositions are followed by gerunds instead of infinitive verbs. With time and practice, you’ll find that using prepositions with infinitive verbs becomes second nature. Happy learning!
