20 Examples of Infinitives In Sentences
Infinitives play a crucial role in English grammar, providing versatility and richness to the language. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by the word “to.” It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb. In this article, we explore 20 examples of infinitives in sentences, illustrating their diverse applications.
What is an Infinitive?
An infinitive is the most basic form of a verb, typically preceded by “to.” It is not bound by subject or tense, making it a versatile component of English grammar. Infinitives can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs, and they can be used in a variety of sentence structures.
Examples of Infinitives as Nouns
1. To run is my favorite activity.
In this sentence, the infinitive “to run” acts as the subject of the sentence, functioning as a noun. It describes the activity that is favored.
2. She wants to learn.
Here, “to learn” is the direct object of the verb “wants.” It shows what she desires to do, serving as a noun.
3. His goal is to win.
The infinitive “to win” functions as a complement, providing more information about the subject “his goal.”
4. To read is to travel without moving your feet.
In this example, both infinitives “to read” and “to travel” act as subjects, comparing two activities metaphorically.
5. I love to cook.
“To cook” is the direct object of the verb “love,” indicating the activity that is loved.
Examples of Infinitives as Adjectives
6. She has a book to read.
The infinitive “to read” modifies the noun “book,” indicating what kind of book it is—one that needs to be read.
7. There is a lot of work to do.
Here, “to do” modifies the noun “work,” specifying the type of work.
8. He is the one to beat.
In this sentence, “to beat” modifies the pronoun “one,” indicating who needs to be defeated.
9. I need a place to stay.
“To stay” modifies the noun “place,” describing the type of place needed.
10. She found a topic to discuss.
The infinitive “to discuss” modifies the noun “topic,” indicating the subject that is to be talked about.
Examples of Infinitives as Adverbs
11. He came to help.
In this sentence, “to help” modifies the verb “came,” indicating the purpose of his coming.
12. She sang to impress.
“To impress” modifies the verb “sang,” showing the reason behind her singing.
13. We left early to avoid traffic.
Here, “to avoid” modifies the verb “left,” explaining the reason for leaving early.
14. He paused to think.
The infinitive “to think” modifies the verb “paused,” indicating the reason for his pause.
15. She stayed up late to finish her project.
“To finish” modifies the verb “stayed,” explaining why she stayed up late.
Complex Infinitive Structures
16. It is important to listen carefully.
In this sentence, “to listen carefully” functions as a subject complement, providing more information about “it.”
17. To be honest, I didn’t like the movie.
The infinitive “to be honest” is used as an introductory phrase, modifying the entire sentence.
18. He is difficult to please.
Here, “to please” modifies the adjective “difficult,” describing why he is considered difficult.
19. She has a meeting to attend.
The infinitive “to attend” modifies the noun “meeting,” indicating the purpose of the meeting.
20. To understand the concept, you need to study.
“To understand the concept” functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the entire clause “you need to study.”
The Role of Infinitives in English Grammar
Infinitives add depth and clarity to our sentences. They can function as the subject, direct object, or complement, enhancing the meaning and providing specific information. By mastering the use of infinitives, one can significantly improve their writing and communication skills.
Infinitives without “to”
In certain situations, infinitives appear without the word “to.” This often occurs after modal verbs (can, could, will, would, shall, should, may, might, must) and certain other verbs like “make” and “let.”
Examples:
- Can you help me fix this?
- She made me laugh.
- Let him go.
These constructions are known as “bare infinitives” and are an important aspect of understanding infinitive usage.
Conclusion
Infinitives are a fundamental part of English grammar, essential for constructing meaningful and precise sentences. By understanding and utilizing infinitives effectively, we can enhance our communication skills and enrich our writing.
