Infinitives

Infinitives

Structure, uses, and examples

Ms. Dania Villalobos

Open Ended

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Structure

• Particle 'to' + base form of the verb

• BE CAREFUL! 'to' is not a preposition in this case

Infinitive without 'to'

• It is best known as BASE FORM

• We use the infinitive without 'to':

• 1

  After the auxiliary verb do, does, did in negative sentences and questions. a) He didn’t say anything. b) Does Tim work with you? c) I don’t believe you. 

  2

  After modal verbs (will, can, must, should, might, may, etc.)

  a) You should come with us. b) I can’t play the guitar.

to + infinitive 

We use the infinitive with to

• 1

  After adjectives.

  a) It’s important to arrive early at the station.

  2

  To express a reason or purpose (why).

  a) I went to Madrid to visit some family. b) I need time to study for the exam.

  3

  After question words.

  a) I don’t know what to eat. b) I want to learn how to play the guitar.

  4

  After some verbs.

  a) Don’t forget to call me. b) She seems to be distracted.

   

Common verbs followed by the infinitive (to +verb)

• Some common verbs that are followed by the infinitive are: decide, forget, help, hope, learn, need, offer, plan, promise, remember, seem, try, want, would like. 

Negative Infinitive

• The negative form of the infinitive is not to + verb.

• She decided not to enter the competition.

Source:

• https://test-english.com/grammar-points/a2/infinitives-and-gerunds/