Infinitive With Examples (As Noun, Adjective, & Adverb)! The infinitive is one of the most versatile verb forms in English. It can be used as a noun, adjective, or adverb. In this blog post, we will explore the different ways to use infinitive and give examples for each usage.
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What is an Infinitive?
An infinitive is the base form of a verb that can be used as a noun, adjective, or adverb. Infinitives are commonly signified by “to” before the verb (e.g., to run, to jump). When used as a noun, the infinitive can take on different functions such as the subject of a sentence or clause (To Err Is Human), a direct object (I Wanted To Help), or an indirect object (They Gave Me Two Tickets To The Show).
As an adjective, the infinitive can modify nouns and pronouns (The Left Door Is The Way To Go) or act as a predicative complement (His Goal Is To Be A Millionaire).
When used as an adverb, the infinitive usually modifies verbs, but it can also modify adjectives and other adverbs (He Works Quickly To Save Money). In each of these cases, the infinitive functions as a different part of speech. Consequently, it is important to be aware of how the infinitive is being used in order to understand its function in a sentence.
Infinitive as Noun
The infinitive can be used as a noun. When used in this way, the infinitive usually functions as the subject or object of a sentence or clause.
Here are some examples of the infinitive as a noun:
- To play soccer is his favorite activity.
In this example, “to play soccer” is the subject of the sentence.
- I love to swim.
In this example, “to swim” is the direct object of the sentence.
- Can you teach me how to bake a cake?
In this example, “how to bake a cake” is the indirect object of the sentence.
Infinitive Example Sentences As Noun:
1- To play soccer is his favorite activity.
2- I love to swim.
3- Can you teach me how to bake a cake?
4- It was nice of them to help us.
5- This is the perfect time to start a new project.
6- It’s important for children to get a good education.
7- Do you have time to talk?
8- To err is human; to forgive, divine.
9- I have nothing to say.
10- He asked me what to do.
11- I don’t know how to do it.
12- There’s nothing to be afraid of.
As you can see, the infinitive can take on different functions when used as a noun. It is important to be aware of these different functions in order to properly understand how the infinitive is being used in a sentence.
Infinitive as Adjective
The infinitive can also be used as an adjective. When used in this way, the infinitive usually modifies nouns and pronouns.
Here are some examples of the infinitive as an adjective:
- The best thing to do is relax.
In this example, “to relax” modifies the pronoun “thing.”
- I’m looking for a place to live.
In this example, “to live” modifies the noun “place.”
Infinitive Example Sentences As Adjective:
1- The best thing to do is relax.
2- I’m looking for a place to live.
3- That was a difficult test to pass.
4- She’s the woman to talk to.
5- He’s the one to ask.
6- This is the best book to read on the subject.
7- Is there anything to eat?
8- I’m ready to go.
9- The time to act is now.
10- It’s time to go home.
11- This is the house to buy.
12- That’s the boy to talk to.
As you can see, the infinitive can take on different functions when used as an adjective.
Infinitive as Adverb
Finally, the infinitive can be used as an adverb. When used in this way, the infinitive usually modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
Here are some examples of the infinitive as an adverb:
- He works quickly to save money.
In this example, “quickly” modifies the verb “works.”
- To err is human.
In this example, “human” modifies the adjective “err.”
- We must try our best to be good citizens.
In this example, “best” modifies the adverb “try.”
Infinitive Example Sentences As Adverb:
1- He works quickly to save money.
2- To err is human; to forgive, divine.
3- We must try our best to be good citizens.
4- They managed to get here on time.
5- I’m trying to learn French.
6- He’s always late to class.
7- They walked slowly across the street.
8- He drives carefully.
9- We’re going to have to get there early.
10- Tell him to come here.
11- Make her go away.
12- Let them in.
13- I want you to stop.
14- They made me do it.
15- He wants us to leave.
16- We had to wait for them.
17- I’m going to have to ask you to leave.
18- You need to calm down.
As Phrase:
1- She’s looking forward to the party.
2- I’m getting used to driving on the right side of the road.
3- He’s fond of cats.
4- They’re set in their ways.
5- We’re interested in buying your house.
6- He’s good at basketball.
7- They’re bad at keeping secrets.
8- I’m terrible at math.
9- She’s afraid of snakes.
10- He’s known for being a great speaker.
11- They’re responsible for the accident.
12- I’m dedicated to my work.
13 – We’re committed to making this company a success.
Bare Infinitive:
1- He asked me to come.
2- I wanted her to stay.
3- I need you to help me.
4- I told them to leave.
5- I made him go away.
6- We had to wait for them.
7- I’m going to have to ask you to leave.
8- You need to calm down.
9- Tell him to come here.
10- Make her go away.
11- Let them in.
12- I want you to stop.
13 – They made me do it.
14 – He wants us to leave.
15 – We’re going to have to get there early.
Without To:
In most cases, infinitives begin with “to.” However, when these verbs are used, the infinitive loses its “to”:
- Make
- See
- Feel
- Hear
- Watch
- Help
- Let
Examples:
1- When my phone ring, I get up to make dinner.
2- I often see him in the library.
3- I felt the need to help her.
4- They asked me to watch their kids for an hour.
5- He didn’t let me go out with my friends.
6- We must help them find a job.
7- Let’s make a cake!
Infographics – Infinitive (As Noun, Adjective, & Adverb)
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