Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases

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What is an infinitive?

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An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by 'to'. For example, 'to run', 'to eat', 'to play'.

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What is an infinitive phrase?

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An infinitive phrase includes the infinitive and any modifiers or complements. For example, 'to eat quickly'.

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What are the functions of infinitive phrases?

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Infinitive phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.

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Identify the function of the infinitive phrase in the sentence: 'To win the game is my goal.'

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The infinitive phrase 'To win the game' functions as the subject of the sentence.

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Identify the function of the infinitive phrase in the sentence: 'She has a desire to travel the world.'

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The infinitive phrase 'to travel the world' functions as a direct object.

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Identify the function of the infinitive phrase in the sentence: 'He is eager to learn.'

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The infinitive phrase 'to learn' functions as an adverb, describing 'eager'.

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Identify the function of the infinitive phrase in the sentence: 'Her goal is to become a doctor.'

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The infinitive phrase 'to become a doctor' functions as a predicate nominative (subject complement).

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What is the difference between an infinitive and a gerund?

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An infinitive is the base form of a verb (to + verb), while a gerund is the -ing form of a verb that functions as a noun.

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Provide an example of an infinitive phrase functioning as an adjective.

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In the sentence 'She has a book to read', the phrase 'to read' describes the noun 'book'.

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Provide an example of an infinitive phrase functioning as an adverb.

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In the sentence 'He studied hard to pass the exam', the phrase 'to pass the exam' explains why he studied hard.