Infinitive Phrases For Intermediate learners

Did you know that we have 'infinitive phrases'? Are you interested in learning more about them? Let's go then.

What Are Infinitive Phrases in English?

What Are Infinitive Phrases?

Infinitive phrases consist of the particle 'to' plus the base form of the main verb. Infinitive phrases are often used as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.

Infinitive Phrases: Structure

As stated above, infinitives are formed by adding 'to' to the base form of the verb. Look at the following examples:

Example

Henry loves to eat cakes.

To take a thirty-minute walk everyday is a way to stay healthy.

Don't you like to dance with me?

Greg really wanted to talk this out but you ruined it.

Infinitive Phrases: Uses

Infinitive phrases can serve as:

the subject of sentence

Example

To take a warm bath at night helps you relax. (as the subject)

the object of sentence

Example

Harry wants to take the dog out.

an adjective

Example

That is a place to spend the night in.

Here, it is an adjective modifying a noun.

an adverb

Example

He walked to the store to buy some milk.

'To but some milk' is an adverb of purpose.

Tip!

Sometimes, another word (such as an adverb) can come between 'to' and the main verb, creating what is known as a split infinitive.

Example

They decided to quickly go over the lessons.

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