The infinitive form of a verb is one of the most fundamental aspects of language learning, yet it often confuses beginners. In English, the infinitive form is the base form of the verb, usually preceded by the word “to,” as in “to run,” “to eat,” or “to be.” This form is crucial because it serves as the starting point for all other verb conjugations and grammatical constructions. Understanding the infinitive form can significantly enhance your grasp of English grammar and improve your fluency.
What is the Infinitive Form?
The infinitive form of a verb is its most basic form. It is not bound by tense, number, or subject. For example, “to eat” is the infinitive form of the verb “eat.” Unlike the finite forms of verbs, which change to reflect the tense, number, and person (e.g., “eats,” “ate,” “eating”), the infinitive form remains constant.
Two Types of Infinitives: Bare and Full
There are two types of infinitives in English: the bare infinitive and the full infinitive.
1. **Bare Infinitive**: This is the infinitive without the word “to.” For example, “run,” “eat,” and “be” are all bare infinitives. The bare infinitive is used after certain verbs, such as “make” and “let,” and after modal verbs like “can,” “should,” and “might.”
– Example: “She can run fast.”
2. **Full Infinitive**: This includes the word “to” before the verb. For example, “to run,” “to eat,” and “to be” are full infinitives. The full infinitive is used in various grammatical constructions, such as after certain adjectives, nouns, and other verbs.
– Example: “I want to run a marathon.”
Uses of the Infinitive Form
The infinitive form serves multiple functions in a sentence. Here are some of the most common uses:
1. As the Subject of a Sentence
The infinitive can act as the subject of a sentence, although this is more common in formal or literary English.
– Example: “To err is human.”
2. As the Object of a Verb
Many verbs are followed by the infinitive form. These verbs are often related to desires, plans, or decisions.
– Example: “I hope to visit Japan next year.”
3. To Express Purpose
The infinitive can be used to explain why something is done.
– Example: “She is studying hard to pass the exam.”
4. After Certain Adjectives
Certain adjectives are often followed by the infinitive form.
– Example: “I am happy to help you.”
5. After Certain Nouns
Some nouns are followed by the infinitive to add meaning or clarify the noun.
– Example: “He made a decision to leave early.”
6. In Infinitive Phrases
Infinitives can form phrases that function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.
– Example: “To travel around the world is my dream.”
Infinitive without “to” (Bare Infinitive)
The bare infinitive is used in several specific contexts. Understanding when to use it can be tricky, so here are some guidelines.
After Modal Verbs
Modal verbs such as “can,” “should,” “will,” “might,” and “must” are followed by the bare infinitive.
– Example: “She can sing beautifully.”
After Certain Verbs
Some verbs are directly followed by the bare infinitive. Common examples include “make,” “let,” “see,” “hear,” “watch,” and “help.”
– Example: “They made him apologize.”
In Certain Expressions
The bare infinitive is also used in specific expressions, often idiomatic.
– Example: “All I did was ask.”
Common Verbs Followed by the Infinitive
Several verbs are frequently followed by the infinitive form. These verbs often express desires, plans, or efforts. Here are some examples:
– Afford: “I can’t afford to buy a new car.”
– Agree: “She agreed to help us.”
– Decide: “They decided to go on vacation.”
– Hope: “I hope to see you soon.”
– Plan: “We plan to move next year.”
– Promise: “He promised to call me.”
Common Verbs Followed by a Bare Infinitive
In contrast, some verbs are followed by the bare infinitive. These verbs are often related to perception or causation. Here are some examples:
– Make: “She made him laugh.”
– Let: “Please let me go.”
– See: “I saw her leave the room.”
– Hear: “Did you hear him sing?”
– Watch: “We watched them play soccer.”
Infinitives in Passive Constructions
Infinitives can also appear in passive constructions. The structure “to be + past participle” is used to form the passive infinitive.
– Example: “The book is expected to be published next year.”
Passive Infinitive after Certain Verbs
Certain verbs are commonly followed by a passive infinitive. These verbs often express expectations, intentions, or requests.
– Example: “She wants to be invited to the party.”
Split Infinitives
A split infinitive occurs when an adverb is placed between “to” and the verb. While traditional grammar rules frowned upon this practice, modern usage has become more accepting.
– Example: “She decided to quickly run to the store.”
When to Split an Infinitive
Splitting an infinitive can sometimes make a sentence clearer or more emphatic. However, it should be done sparingly and with consideration of the sentence’s rhythm and clarity.
– Example: “He wanted to boldly go where no one had gone before.”
Infinitives vs. Gerunds
Both infinitives and gerunds (verb forms ending in -ing) can function as subjects or objects in a sentence. However, they are not always interchangeable. Understanding when to use each form is crucial for correct grammar.
When to Use Infinitives
Infinitives are often used after certain verbs, adjectives, and nouns. They are also used to express purpose.
– Example: “I hope to see you soon.”
When to Use Gerunds
Gerunds are often used after prepositions and certain verbs. They are also commonly used as the subject of a sentence.
– Example: “I enjoy swimming.”
Common Mistakes with Infinitives
Even advanced learners can make mistakes with infinitives. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
1. Using the Infinitive Instead of the Gerund
Some verbs require a gerund, not an infinitive. Knowing which verbs require which form is essential.
– Incorrect: “She enjoys to swim.”
– Correct: “She enjoys swimming.”
2. Forgetting “to” in the Full Infinitive
When using the full infinitive, make sure to include “to.”
– Incorrect: “I want go home.”
– Correct: “I want to go home.”
3. Splitting Infinitives Unnecessarily
While splitting infinitives is sometimes acceptable, it can lead to awkward or unclear sentences if overused.
– Incorrect: “She decided to quickly run.”
– Correct: “She decided to run quickly.”
Conclusion
The infinitive form of a verb is a vital component of English grammar. Mastering its uses and understanding its nuances can significantly improve your language skills. Whether you’re using the bare infinitive after modal verbs or the full infinitive to express purpose, knowing when and how to use this form will make your speech and writing more precise and effective. Remember to pay attention to common mistakes and practice regularly to become more comfortable with infinitives. Happy learning!
