Lesson 4: Infinitive Phrases

Definition

An infinitive is a verb form that can be used as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb. Most infinitives begin with to.

Explanation

Think of an infinitive as a verb in disguise! It looks like a verb but acts like a different part of speech. It can be the subject of your sentence, describe a noun, or explain why an action is happening. Remember, not every word that starts with to is an infinitive; if it's followed by a noun, it's likely a prepositional phrase.

Examples

• As a Noun: To travel was his primary goal. (To travel is the subject of the sentence.)
• As an Adjective: The book to read is Dune. (To read modifies the noun book.)
• As an Adverb: He was ready to compete after months of training. (To compete modifies the adjective ready.)

Definition

An infinitive phrase consists of an infinitive and any modifiers or complements the infinitive has. The entire phrase can be used as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb.

Explanation

This is an infinitive's whole crew! It's the infinitive itself plus any words that complete its meaning. A key tip to tell it apart from a prepositional phrase is to look at the word right after to. If it’s a verb, it’s an infinitive phrase; if it’s a noun or pronoun, it’s a prepositional phrase.

Examples

• As a Noun: Alex learned to code in Python. (The phrase is the direct object of the verb learned.)
• As an Adjective: Maria's plan to visit her relatives was exciting. (The phrase modifies the noun plan.)
• As an Adverb: He saves his money to buy a new car. (The phrase modifies the verb saves, explaining why he saves.)