Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases
Introduction
Have you ever wondered about the hidden power of the smallest words in your sentences? Enter the world of infinitives and infinitive phrases! These versatile verb forms can transform your writing, making it more dynamic and expressive. Whether you're a student eager to enhance your grammar skills or a professional writer looking to polish your prose, understanding infinitives is a game-changer. In this article, "Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases," we'll delve into how these little powerhouses can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs, adding depth and clarity to your sentences. Let's unlock the full potential of your vocabulary and take your writing to the next level!
Infinitives
What is an infinitive?
An infinitive is a verb form that can be used as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb. Most infinitives begin with to, but occasionally the word to is omitted.
EXAMPLES
- Is it time to go? [The infinitive to go is used as an adjective to modify time.]
- Try to exercise daily. [The infinitive to exercise is used as a noun. The infinitive phrase is the direct object of the verb Try.]
- Your next task is to lift this crate. [The infinitive to lift is used as a noun. The infinitive phrase is the predicate nominative of the verb is.]
TIP
Remember that the word to is often used as a preposition.
- If to is followed by a noun or pronoun, to is a preposition.
- If to is followed by a verb, to is the sign of the infinitive.
INFINITIVES
- to permit
- to count
- to observe
PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES
EXAMPLES
- To apply a good coat of paint, sand and clean the surface first. [The infinitive To apply has a direct object, coat. Coat is modified by a and good and by the prepositional phrase of paint. The whole infinitive phrase functions as an adverb modifying the verbs sand and clean.]
- My little brother is easy to put to bed. [The infinitive to put is modified by the prepositional phrase to bed. The whole phrase functions as an adverb modifying the adjective easy.]
NOTE
In formal speech and writing it is best to avoid “splitting infinitives.” An infinitive is “split” if a modifying word or words come between the sign of the infinitive, to, and the verb.
SPLIT INFINITIVE
- My parents plan to soon buy a new computer.
REVISED
- My parents plan to buy a new computer soon.
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Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases Quiz
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Conclusion
Mastering infinitives and infinitive phrases can significantly elevate your grammar and writing skills. By understanding how to use these versatile verb forms effectively, you can add nuance and precision to your sentences. Keep practicing, and don't hesitate to revisit this guide whenever you need a refresher. Remember, the key to mastering grammar is consistent practice and application. Happy writing, and may your sentences always be grammatically impeccable and engaging!
FAQs on Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases
1. What is an infinitive and an infinitive phrase with examples?
Answer: An infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by the word "to." An infinitive phrase includes the infinitive verb and any complements or modifiers it may have. For example:
- Infinitive: "to eat"
- Infinitive Phrase: "to eat a healthy breakfast"
2. How do you identify the infinitive or infinitive phrase?
Answer: To identify an infinitive or an infinitive phrase, look for the word "to" followed by a verb. The phrase may also include additional words that complete or modify the verb. For example:
- Infinitive: "to read"
- Infinitive Phrase: "to read a book"
3. What are 10 infinitives examples?
Answer: Here are 10 examples of infinitives:
- To run
- To dance
- To write
- To sing
- To play
- To watch
- To swim
- To draw
- To cook
- To learn
4. Which sentence uses an infinitive or an infinitive phrase as a noun?
Answer: An example of a sentence using an infinitive or an infinitive phrase as a noun is:
- "To travel around the world is my dream."
In this sentence, "to travel around the world" acts as the subject of the sentence.