What is infinitive and what are its usages
Infinitive is the basic non-finite form of a verb considered like a noun.
Types
Full infinitive
Full infinitives start with a "to" particle followed by the base form of the verb, and the structure is to + verb.
- I like to go
- I want to sleep
Split Infinitive
It's exactly like full infinitive except there is another word between the to and the base form of the verb.
- I asked him to _politely_ talk.
- He deserves to _quickly_ be promoted.
- I wanted to _boldly_ go for what I stand for. (Split Infinitive)
Bare infinitive
Bare infinitive, unlike the full infinitive, doesn't start with any particles, and is just the base form of them verb.
- I must go
- I must leave
Verbs followed by infinitives
to-infinitive
The verbs below are always followed by an infinitive that starts with a "to" particle.
| afford | demand | need | swear |
|---|---|---|---|
| agree | deserve | neglect | threaten |
| appear | expect | offer | volunteer |
| arrange | fail | pay | wait |
| ask | grow | plan | want |
| attempt | hesitate | prepare | wish |
| can't wait | hope | pretend | would like |
| care | hurry | promise | yearn |
| choose | intend | refuse | - |
| claim | learn | request | - |
| consent | manage | seem | - |
| decide | mean | struggle | - |
Bare infinitive
All modals are followed by a bare infinitive.
Perfect Infinitive
Perfect infinitive refers to a point in time prior to the statement being made; its structure is exactly like present perfect except having a to particle before it.
- I wish to have seen you sooner.
- I'm glad to have met you.
- I meant to have been in United Kingdom before my 20
Subject Complement
Infinitives are used as a subject complement after a be verb.
- My advice is to file a complaint at once.
- My dream is to make a trip to England.
- I'm too lazy to work.