Form: to + base verb |
DEFINITION: An infinitive is the simple present form of a verb used as either a noun, adjective, or adverb. The verb of the infinitive is normally preceded by the word to. When the infinitive follows some verbs as the direct object, "to" may be omitted. |
Examples: I need to run every day. I love to swim. I can't wait to go to Italy. Beau shouted to get Kelly's attention. Kei is working hard to earn enough money for his family. |
USES: Infinitives are either used as a noun, adjective, adverb, or bare infinitives (dropped "to"). Study the examples below: |
1. Infinitives as Nouns |
Ex. Hana likes to dance ballet. My mom loves to cook Greek food. William helped to write the book. |
2. Infinitives as Adjectives |
Ex. Give him something to read. I need someone to carry the boxes. Yana is busy looking for an apartment to rent. |
3. Infinitives as Adverbs |
Ex. Ben dropped by to help. Keiko will complete the job today to impress her boss. He arrived too late to see the show. |
4. Infinitives with Omitted "to" |
Ex. You should go home now. Harry watched his mom bake pie. Sally heard the alarm go off. |