The infinitive is the basic form of the verb. We can use it with or without the particle to, depending on the verb, noun, or the adjective it follows.
Example
Explanation
I want to speak English better.
To speak is the infinitive with to that follow the verb want.
Rule 1: We can use to + infinitive to indicate the purpose or intention of an action, in the meaning of in order to or so as to.
Example
Explanation
I am calling to invite you to my birthday party next week.
to invite expresses an intention or purpose
Rule 2: We can use to-infinitive as the subject of the sentence. It is more common in formal writing than in spoken English.
Example
Explanation
To be or not to be, that is the question.
to be is the subject of the famous Shakespeare's quote.
Rule 3: We can use to-infinitive to indicate what something can or will be used for. In this care, it usually follows a noun or pronoun.
Example
Explanation
Can I offer you something to drink?
to drink indicated the use of something
Rule 4: We can use to-infinitive to express judgement or make a comment.
Example
Explanation
It was a rude thing to say.
To-infinitive is used to judge one's expressions.
Rule 5: We can use to-infinitive with verbs like ask, decide, explain, forget, know, etc. followed by question words where, how, what, who, and when.
Example
Explanation
I don't know how to use this device.
To use is to-infinitive that follows the verb know and question word how.
Rule 6: We can use to-infinitive after adjectives.
Example
Explanation
It would be impossible to come back here tomorrow.
Impossible is an adjective followed by to-infinitive to come.
Rule 7: We can use to-infinitive with the adverbs too and enough (placed before or after the adjective, adverb, or noun that they modify) to express the reasoning behind satisfaction or disappointment.
Example
Explanation
The soup was warm enough to eat, but there was too much sugar in my tea to drink it.
To eat is to-infinitive that comes after the adjective warm and the adverb enough; too is the adjective placed before the noun sugar and followed by to-infinitive to drink
Quiz
1/4
Choose the correct form of the verb. She wants ___ milk.
0
correct answers.