An infinitive is the base form of a verb that can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb. As a noun, an infinitive can be the subject or direct object of a sentence. As an adjective, an infinitive can modify or describe a noun. As an adverb, an infinitive can provide more information about verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs in a sentence. Examples are provided for infinitives functioning in each part of speech.
2. What is an Infinitive?
Is a base form of a
verb. Though it is
formed out of a
verb, it doesn’t
work as a verb.
That means, it is a
verb form that can
be used as a NOUN,
ADJECTIVE or an
ADVERB.
Most infinitives
begin with “to”.
3.
4. INFINITIVES used as NOUNS
This is the case when an
infinitive is used as the
direct object or the subject
of a sentence.
Example :
I love to eat.
To help others is so
important.
5. INFINITIVES as ADJECTIVES
It used as adjectives when they modify
or describe nouns in a sentence. (give
us more information about nouns)
Example:
Jomar wants a pizza to eat.
Humility is the best class to admire.
I always bring a calculator to use in case
of emergencies.
The person to consult about the book is
my publisher.
6. INFINITVES
as ADVERBS
Is function as adverbs when
they are used to give more
information about adjectives,
verbs, or other adverbs in a
sentence.
Example:
She raised her hand to ask a
question.
James must drink the rat
poison to die.
To win the pageant, Altea must
answer the questions perfectly.
7. Fill in the blanks
Read the following options and choose the correct
form of the infinitive verb from the given options.
1. Sruti will be ready ____ her idea about the project to
the manager. (presenting)
2. Tina was happy ____ the examination cut-off. (clearing)
3. Yuvraj was unfit ____ in the match. (playing)
4. The little boy was terrified ____ into the river.
(jumping)
5. The convict was reluctant _____ the truth. (speaking)
8. 6. The poor man didn’t have money _____
food. (buying)
7. Prem didn’t continue ____ for a long time.
(work)
8. The mechanic has managed ____ my
laptop. (fix)
9. There was nothing for him ____ for.
(fighting)
10. The doctor said there was nothing ____
about the patient’s health. (worry)
9. 11. Amy has come ____ Penny. (meeting)
12. I am sorry ____ about your loss. (hearing)
13. The college has agreed ____ the final
examination. (postponing)
14. Please remember ____ vegetables and
fruits from the market. (buying)
15. Don’t forget _____ the documents.
(signing)
10. DIRECTIONS: Underline the infinitive in each
sentence. On the line,write whether it is being
used as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb
1. John really wants to play with us.
2. I am reluctant to confess my feelings
3. That stain will be difficult to clean.
4. The boy to watch this game is Colin.
5. I doubt it will be simple to explain.
11. 6. To try is the first step to success.
7. To believe in yourself is very important.
8. The rule to break is rule number one.
9. Which is the healthiest snack to eat?
10. The teacher to have this fall is Miss
Jones
12. 11. To study is the habit of a good
student.
12. To recommend something is
friendly.
13. To upset you was not my
intention.
14. I am ashamed to admit I was
wrong.