Welcome to our comprehensive lesson on the versatile ‘to’ infinitive in English grammar! Today, picture yourself in a classroom with me as your English teacher, guiding you step by step through this fascinating topic.
1. Infinitive as the Subject of a Verb:
Infinitives can serve as the subject of a verb, expressing general truths or principles. For example: ‘To err is human; to forgive is divine.’
2. Infinitive as the Object of a Transitive Verb:
Infinitives can act as the object of a transitive verb, where an action is directed toward something. For example: ‘Prakash wants to teach’ or ‘She likes to learn English.’
3. Infinitive as the Complement of a Verb:
Infinitives function as complements, providing more information about the action. For example: ‘They are to sell their home’ or ‘To see is to believe.’
4. Infinitive as an Object of a Preposition:
Infinitives may follow prepositions, like: ‘Prakash is about to start teaching’ or ‘She had no choice but to accept the proposal.’
5. Infinitive as an Adjective to Qualify a Noun:
Infinitives can serve as adjectives to describe nouns. For example: ‘I have enough money to buy’ or ‘He is a man to be admired.’
6. Infinitive as an Adverb to Qualify an Adjective:
Infinitives can function as adverbs modifying adjectives. For example: ‘It is difficult to solve the sum’ or ‘They were too ill to attend the party.’
7. Infinitive to Qualify a Sentence:
Infinitives can qualify entire sentences, offering additional context. For example: ‘To be honest, they are not going to teach English’ or ‘To tell the truth, he quite forgot his promise.’
8. Infinitive After Specific Verbs (List of Verbs):
Infinitives follow specific verbs. For example: ‘Prakash endeavored to help them’ or ‘She hesitates to dance here.’
In summary, infinitives with ‘to’ are grammar gems that can function in various roles within sentences. Mastery of their correct usage will undoubtedly enhance your language skills. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be an expert at using infinitives with ‘to’ in English!
