Learning a new language can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. One aspect that often confuses learners is the use of prepositions with infinitives. In English, infinitives are the base form of verbs, often preceded by the word “to.” However, the rules surrounding the use of prepositions before infinitives can be tricky. This article aims to demystify this topic and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how to use prepositions with infinitives correctly.
Understanding Infinitives
Before diving into prepositions, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what infinitives are. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word “to.” For example, in the phrase “to eat,” “to” is the marker and “eat” is the base verb. Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs within a sentence.
Examples of Infinitives
1. **As Nouns**:
– “To read is enjoyable.”
– “I love to write.”
2. **As Adjectives**:
– “I have a book to read.”
– “She is looking for a place to live.”
3. **As Adverbs**:
– “He went outside to play.”
– “She arrived early to help.”
Common Prepositions and Their Usage with Infinitives
In English, certain prepositions are commonly used with infinitives. However, not all prepositions can be followed by an infinitive. Let’s explore some of the most common prepositions and their usage with infinitives.
1. About
The preposition “about” is often used to indicate the topic or subject of an action. When used with an infinitive, it usually follows verbs that express emotions or states of mind.
– “She is excited about to travel.” (Incorrect)
– “She is excited about traveling.” (Correct)
In this case, “about” is followed by a gerund (traveling) rather than an infinitive.
2. For
The preposition “for” is frequently used to indicate the purpose or reason for an action. It is often followed by an infinitive.
– “This book is for to read.” (Incorrect)
– “This book is for reading.” (Correct)
However, when expressing purpose, “for” can be followed by an infinitive phrase.
– “I went to the store for to buy groceries.” (Incorrect)
– “I went to the store to buy groceries.” (Correct)
3. In
The preposition “in” is used to indicate location or condition. When followed by a verb, it is usually followed by a gerund, not an infinitive.
– “She is interested in to learn new languages.” (Incorrect)
– “She is interested in learning new languages.” (Correct)
4. Of
The preposition “of” often indicates belonging or a part of a whole. When used with verbs, it is usually followed by a gerund.
– “He is capable of to solve the problem.” (Incorrect)
– “He is capable of solving the problem.” (Correct)
5. With
The preposition “with” is used to indicate association or accompaniment. When followed by a verb, it usually takes a gerund form.
– “She is busy with to prepare for her exams.” (Incorrect)
– “She is busy with preparing for her exams.” (Correct)
Prepositions Followed by Infinitives
In English, certain prepositions can be followed directly by an infinitive. These instances are less common but important to note.
1. To
The preposition “to” is the most common preposition followed by an infinitive. It is often used to express purpose or intention.
– “I went to the store to buy groceries.”
– “She studied hard to pass the exam.”
2. Than
The preposition “than” can sometimes be followed by an infinitive, especially in comparisons.
– “It is easier to say than to do.”
– “He would rather work than complain.”
3. Except
The preposition “except” can be followed by an infinitive to indicate exclusion.
– “She did everything except to cook dinner.” (Less common, more formal)
– “She did everything except cook dinner.” (More common)
4. But
The preposition “but” can also be followed by an infinitive, usually in the sense of “except” or “only.”
– “He had no choice but to leave.”
– “She did nothing but complain.”
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
One of the most common errors language learners make is using a preposition followed by an infinitive when it should be followed by a gerund or vice versa. Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes:
1. Identify the Function of the Infinitive
Determine whether the infinitive is functioning as a noun, adjective, or adverb in the sentence. This will help you decide if a preposition is necessary and which one to use.
– “She wants to travel.” (No preposition needed)
– “She is interested in traveling.” (Preposition “in” followed by gerund)
2. Memorize Common Verb-Preposition Combinations
Some verbs are commonly paired with specific prepositions. Memorizing these combinations can help you use them correctly.
– “Interested in” (not “interested to”)
– “Capable of” (not “capable to”)
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
The best way to master prepositions with infinitives is through practice. Write sentences, take quizzes, and engage in conversations to reinforce your understanding.
Special Cases and Exceptions
While the rules outlined above cover most scenarios, English is a language full of exceptions. Here are some special cases to be aware of:
1. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are verbs combined with prepositions or adverbs to create a new meaning. These combinations can be tricky because the preposition or adverb may not follow the typical rules.
– “Look forward to” (followed by a gerund)
– “I look forward to meeting you.”
2. Infinitive Phrases
Sometimes, infinitive phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. In these cases, the preposition may be part of the phrase rather than directly modifying the infinitive.
– “To be honest, I don’t know.”
– “He went there to study.”
3. Idiomatic Expressions
Idiomatic expressions often break the usual rules of grammar. It’s important to learn these expressions as whole units rather than trying to apply standard rules.
– “In order to” (used to express purpose)
– “She left early in order to catch the train.”
Conclusion
Understanding the use of prepositions with infinitives is crucial for mastering English. While the rules can be complex, practice and familiarity will make them easier over time. Remember to pay attention to the function of the infinitive in the sentence, memorize common verb-preposition combinations, and be aware of special cases and exceptions. With consistent effort, you’ll find yourself using prepositions with infinitives correctly and confidently.
By mastering this aspect of English grammar, you’ll improve your overall fluency and accuracy in the language, making your communication more effective and nuanced. Happy learning!
