Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases

What is an Infinitive?

• An infinitive is the basic form of a verb preceded by the word "to."
• Examples of infinitives:
  • to run
  • to laugh
  • to ride
  • to fall

Functions of Infinitives

• As a Noun
  • "To run was his passion."
    • Here, "to run" is the subject of the verb "was."
  • "He likes to run."
    • "To run" is the direct object of the verb "likes."
• As an Adjective
  • "Give the dog a bone to chew."
    • "To chew" modifies "bone," functioning as an adjective.
• As an Adverb
  • "The soldier returned to help."
    • "To help" modifies the verb "returned," functioning as an adverb.

What is an Infinitive Phrase?

• An infinitive phrase includes:
  • The basic form of a verb
  • Any complements and modifiers
    • These usually take the form of direct objects and adverbs
• Example:
  • "She likes to write the words quickly."
    • Infinitive: "to write"
    • Direct Object: "the words"
    • Modifier: "quickly"

Quick Review

• An infinitive is when "to" precedes a verb in its basic form.
• An infinitive phrase is formed by adding a direct object and other complements or modifiers to the infinitive.

These notes summarize the lesson on infinitives and infinitive phrases, covering their definitions, functions, and examples.