Learning a new language can be challenging, but understanding the nuances of grammar can make the journey smoother. One such area that often perplexes English language learners is the use of prepositions with infinitives. Infinitives, the “to” form of verbs (e.g., to eat, to run), are fundamental in English. However, when combined with prepositions, their usage can become tricky. This article aims to demystify the rules and patterns governing prepositions with infinitives, offering you a clearer path to mastering this aspect of English grammar.
Understanding Infinitives
Before diving into the specifics of prepositions with infinitives, it’s important to understand what an infinitive is. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word “to.” For example, in the sentence “I want to eat,” “to eat” is the infinitive.
Infinitives can function in various roles within a sentence:
1. As subjects: To read is enjoyable.
2. As objects: She likes to dance.
3. As complements: His goal is to travel.
The Basics of Prepositions
Prepositions are words that show the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and other words in a sentence. Common prepositions include “in,” “on,” “at,” “with,” “by,” “for,” and “to.” Prepositions are usually followed by a noun phrase or a pronoun, not an infinitive. For example:
– She is interested in music. (preposition followed by a noun)
– He is good at it. (preposition followed by a pronoun)
Common Prepositions with Infinitives
Although prepositions are typically followed by a noun or pronoun, there are certain constructions in English where a preposition is followed by an infinitive. These constructions often involve specific verbs, adjectives, or phrases. Below are some of the common prepositions used with infinitives:
1. “About” + Infinitive
The preposition “about” can be used with an infinitive to indicate intent or preparation. For example:
– He is about to leave.
– They are about to start the meeting.
In these sentences, “about to” signifies that the action of the infinitive is imminent.
2. “To” + Infinitive
The preposition “to” is the most common preposition used with infinitives. It is almost always followed by the base form of the verb. Examples include:
– I want to go home.
– She decided to study harder.
In these cases, “to” serves as a marker that the following verb is in its infinitive form.
3. “For” + Infinitive
The preposition “for” can be used with an infinitive to express purpose or reason. For example:
– She went to the store for buying groceries. (More commonly, you would see “to buy groceries,” but “for buying groceries” is also grammatically correct.)
– This tool is for cutting wood.
Here, “for” introduces the purpose of the action.
4. “In order to” + Infinitive
“In order to” is a phrase that indicates the purpose of an action. It is more formal than simply using “to.” For example:
– He studied hard in order to pass the exam.
– She saved money in order to buy a new car.
Using “in order to” makes the purpose of the action explicit.
Prepositions Requiring Gerunds Instead of Infinitives
It’s important to note that many prepositions are followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb) rather than an infinitive. Here are some common examples:
1. “On” + Gerund
– She insisted on coming with us.
– He kept on talking despite the interruptions.
2. “In” + Gerund
– He is interested in learning new languages.
– She succeeded in solving the problem.
3. “Of” + Gerund
– He is capable of doing great things.
– She is afraid of flying.
Verbs Followed by Prepositions and Infinitives
Certain verbs are often followed by a preposition and then an infinitive. These combinations can be tricky to remember, but they are essential for sounding natural in English. Here are some common examples:
1. Accustomed to + Infinitive
The verb “accustomed” is often followed by “to” and an infinitive:
– She is accustomed to working late.
– He is not accustomed to speaking in public.
2. Commit to + Infinitive
The verb “commit” is often followed by “to” and an infinitive:
– He committed to finishing the project on time.
– She has committed to helping them.
3. Look forward to + Infinitive
The phrase “look forward to” is commonly followed by an infinitive:
– I look forward to meeting you.
– She looks forward to traveling next year.
Adjectives Followed by Prepositions and Infinitives
Adjectives can also be followed by prepositions and infinitives, creating phrases that describe feelings, attitudes, or opinions. Here are some common examples:
1. Afraid of + Infinitive
– She is afraid of flying.
– He is afraid of making mistakes.
2. Capable of + Infinitive
– He is capable of doing great things.
– She is capable of handling the situation.
3. Interested in + Infinitive
– He is interested in learning new languages.
– She is interested in pursuing a career in law.
Idiomatic Expressions with Prepositions and Infinitives
English is rich with idiomatic expressions that involve prepositions and infinitives. These expressions often don’t follow standard grammatical rules and need to be memorized. Here are some examples:
1. Be about to
“Be about to” is used to indicate that something is going to happen very soon:
– I am about to leave.
– She was about to call you.
2. Be supposed to
“Be supposed to” indicates an expectation or obligation:
– You are supposed to finish your homework before dinner.
– He was supposed to arrive by now.
Common Mistakes with Prepositions and Infinitives
Learning prepositions with infinitives can be challenging, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors and tips to avoid them:
1. Using the Wrong Preposition
One common mistake is using the wrong preposition before an infinitive. For example:
– Incorrect: He is interested to learn new languages.
– Correct: He is interested in learning new languages.
Tip: Pay attention to the prepositions commonly used with specific verbs or adjectives.
2. Using an Infinitive Instead of a Gerund
Another common mistake is using an infinitive where a gerund should be used. For example:
– Incorrect: She insisted to come with us.
– Correct: She insisted on coming with us.
Tip: Learn which prepositions are followed by gerunds and which are followed by infinitives.
3. Forgetting the Infinitive Marker “to”
Sometimes learners forget to include the “to” before the infinitive. For example:
– Incorrect: I want go home.
– Correct: I want to go home.
Tip: Remember that most infinitives are preceded by “to.”
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of prepositions with infinitives, try these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct preposition and infinitive form of the verb in parentheses.
1. She is looking forward _______ (meet) you.
2. He committed _______ (finish) the project on time.
3. They are about _______ (start) the meeting.
4. He is capable _______ (do) great things.
5. She insisted _______ (come) with us.
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
1. He is interested to learn new languages.
2. She insisted to come with us.
3. I want go home.
4. She is capable to handling the situation.
5. He looks forward meeting you.
Exercise 3: Create Sentences
Create your own sentences using the following prepositions and infinitives.
1. About to + [verb]
2. Supposed to + [verb]
3. Interested in + [verb]
4. Capable of + [verb]
5. Commit to + [verb]
Conclusion
Mastering the use of prepositions with infinitives is a crucial step in achieving fluency in English. By understanding the common patterns and practicing regularly, you can overcome the challenges associated with this aspect of grammar. Remember that consistency is key; the more you practice, the more natural these constructions will become.
In summary, while prepositions are usually followed by nouns or pronouns, certain prepositions can be followed by infinitives in specific contexts. Additionally, many verbs and adjectives are commonly paired with prepositions and infinitives, forming idiomatic expressions that are essential for natural English communication. By paying attention to these patterns and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to mastering prepositions with infinitives. Happy learning!
