Language learning can be a fascinating journey, especially when you delve into the intricacies of grammar. One such grammatical concept that often piques the interest of learners is the use of verbal nouns, particularly infinitives. Infinitives are an essential part of the English language, and understanding their usage can significantly enhance your fluency and comprehension. In this article, we will explore what verbal nouns or infinitives are, their different forms, and how they are used in various contexts.
What Are Verbal Nouns (Infinitives)?
Infinitives are a form of a verb that typically appear in their base form, often preceded by the word “to.” For example, in the phrase “to run,” “to run” is the infinitive form of the verb “run.” Infinitives can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs within a sentence, making them incredibly versatile.
In English, infinitives can be divided into two categories:
1. Full Infinitives: These include the particle “to” before the verb (e.g., to eat, to sleep).
2. Bare Infinitives: These do not include the particle “to” (e.g., eat, sleep), and are often used after certain modal verbs and other specific verbs.
Functions of Infinitives
Infinitives can serve multiple grammatical roles in a sentence. Here, we will delve into their primary functions:
1. Infinitives as Subjects
Infinitives can act as the subject of a sentence. For instance:
– To read is enjoyable.
– To travel can be expensive.
In these examples, the infinitives “to read” and “to travel” function as the subjects of the sentences.
2. Infinitives as Objects
Infinitives can also serve as the objects of verbs. For example:
– She wants to learn.
– They decided to leave early.
In these sentences, the infinitives “to learn” and “to leave” are the objects of the verbs “wants” and “decided,” respectively.
3. Infinitives as Subject Complements
Infinitives can act as subject complements, providing more information about the subject:
– His goal is to become a doctor.
– Her dream was to visit Paris.
Here, the infinitives “to become” and “to visit” complement the subjects “goal” and “dream.”
4. Infinitives as Adjectives
Infinitives can modify nouns, functioning as adjectives:
– She has a book to read.
– There is a lot to do.
In these sentences, the infinitives “to read” and “to do” describe the nouns “book” and “lot,” respectively.
5. Infinitives as Adverbs
Infinitives can also modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, serving as adverbs in a sentence:
– He went to the store to buy groceries.
– She is happy to help.
In these examples, the infinitives “to buy” and “to help” modify the verbs “went” and “is happy,” respectively.
Special Uses of Infinitives
While the basic functions of infinitives are straightforward, there are several special uses of infinitives that are important to understand:
1. Infinitives of Purpose
Infinitives are often used to express purpose:
– She studied hard to pass the exam.
– They went to the park to relax.
These sentences indicate the reason or purpose behind the actions.
2. Infinitives with Too and Enough
Infinitives can be used in conjunction with “too” and “enough” to express sufficiency or excess:
– She is too young to drive.
– He is strong enough to lift the box.
In these examples, the infinitives “to drive” and “to lift” are used to complete the ideas started with “too” and “enough.”
3. Infinitive Phrases
Infinitives can be part of larger phrases that include additional words to provide more context:
– To win the championship, they must practice every day.
– She made a list of things to buy for the trip.
These infinitive phrases function as complete ideas that add depth to the sentences.
4. Split Infinitives
A split infinitive occurs when an adverb or other word is placed between “to” and the verb:
– She decided to quickly leave the room.
– He wants to completely understand the problem.
While split infinitives were traditionally frowned upon, they are now widely accepted in modern English for clarity and emphasis.
Common Verbs Followed by Infinitives
Certain verbs are commonly followed by infinitives. Here is a list of some of these verbs:
– Agree: She agreed to help with the project.
– Decide: They decided to go on vacation.
– Expect: I expect to finish the work by tomorrow.
– Hope: We hope to see you soon.
– Plan: He plans to start a new business.
– Promise: She promised to call me later.
– Want: I want to learn a new language.
These verbs are often followed by infinitives to express actions or intentions.
Infinitives Without “To” (Bare Infinitives)
Bare infinitives, which do not include the particle “to,” are used in specific contexts. Here are some common scenarios where bare infinitives are used:
1. After Modal Verbs
Modal verbs (can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would) are followed by bare infinitives:
– She can swim very well.
– He must finish his homework.
2. After Certain Verbs
Certain verbs are followed by bare infinitives, including make, let, and help:
– She made him apologize.
– Let me help you.
3. After Verbs of Perception
Verbs of perception (see, hear, feel, watch) are often followed by bare infinitives:
– I saw her dance.
– He heard the baby cry.
4. After Expressions with “Had Better” and “Would Rather”
Expressions like “had better” and “would rather” are followed by bare infinitives:
– You had better leave now.
– I would rather stay home.
Infinitives Versus Gerunds
While infinitives are an essential component of English grammar, they are often compared to gerunds. Gerunds are the -ing form of a verb functioning as a noun. Understanding the difference between infinitives and gerunds can help you use them correctly.
1. Infinitive and Gerund as Subjects
Both infinitives and gerunds can act as subjects, but their usage can change the nuance of a sentence:
– To exercise is important for health. (infinitive)
– Exercising is important for health. (gerund)
Both sentences convey the same idea, but the gerund form is often more natural in everyday speech.
2. Infinitive and Gerund as Objects
Certain verbs can be followed by either an infinitive or a gerund, sometimes with a change in meaning:
– She remembered to lock the door. (She did not forget to lock it.)
– She remembered locking the door. (She has a memory of locking it.)
Other verbs strictly prefer one form over the other:
– He enjoys swimming. (gerund)
– They decided to leave. (infinitive)
Infinitive Clauses
Infinitive clauses are structures where the infinitive has its own subject, often introduced by the word “for”:
– It is important for you to understand this concept.
– The best way for them to learn is through practice.
In these examples, the infinitive clauses “for you to understand” and “for them to learn” provide additional information about the subjects “it” and “the best way.”
Negative Infinitives
To make an infinitive negative, place “not” before the infinitive:
– It is important not to forget the keys.
– She decided not to attend the meeting.
Negative infinitives clearly convey actions that should not be taken.
Common Mistakes with Infinitives
As with any grammatical structure, learners often make mistakes when using infinitives. Here are some common errors and tips to avoid them:
1. Using “To” with Bare Infinitives
Avoid using “to” with verbs that require bare infinitives:
– Incorrect: He can to swim.
– Correct: He can swim.
2. Forgetting the Infinitive Particle “To”
Ensure you include “to” where necessary:
– Incorrect: She wants learn more.
– Correct: She wants to learn more.
3. Mixing Up Infinitives and Gerunds
Be mindful of verbs that require specific forms:
– Incorrect: She enjoys to read.
– Correct: She enjoys reading.
4. Splitting Infinitives Unnecessarily
While split infinitives are acceptable, avoid overusing them if it affects clarity:
– Awkward: She decided to boldly go where no one has gone before.
– Clearer: She decided to go boldly where no one has gone before.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of infinitives, try these practice exercises:
1. Identify the Infinitive
Find and underline the infinitive in each sentence:
– She plans to visit her grandparents next weekend.
– It is important to drink enough water.
2. Complete the Sentence
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the infinitive:
– They decided ___ (to go) on a road trip.
– He forgot ___ (to call) his friend.
3. Rewrite the Sentence
Rewrite the sentences using infinitives where appropriate:
– She enjoys dancing. (Rewrite using “to dance”)
– His goal is becoming a lawyer. (Rewrite using “to become”)
Conclusion
Infinitives are a fundamental aspect of English grammar, offering flexibility and depth to your sentences. By understanding their various forms and functions, you can use infinitives more effectively and accurately in your speech and writing. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to the contexts in which infinitives are used. With time and effort, you’ll find that mastering infinitives can greatly enhance your command of the English language.
