Infinitives — Forms & Uses
An infinitive is the base verb, usually with to (to go). Without "to" it is a bare infinitive (after modals: can go). Infinitives can act as a noun, adjective, or adverb.
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| Noun (subject) | To learn is important. |
| Noun (object) | I want to eat. |
| Adjective | I have work to do. |
| Adverb (purpose) | She came to help. |
Forms: present (to go), perfect (to have gone), continuous (to be going).
Use the bare infinitive (no "to") after modals (must, can) and after make/let: "He made me laugh."
Common mistake: Adding "to" after a modal: "I must to go" → "I must go."
✏️ Test Yourself
1. You must ___ (go).
2. I hope ___ (see) you.
3. She let him ___ (play).
4. They decided ___ (leave).
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — To skip unnecessary details and go straight to the main point.
“Let’s cut to the chase and address the main issue.”
Meaning — To resemble a parent or ancestor in appearance or behavior.
“She takes after her mother in her artistic talents.”
Meaning — To neither make a profit nor lose money.
“The company finally broke even after months of struggle.”
Meaning — To accept things as they happen without trying to change them.
“Sometimes it’s easier to just go with the flow than resist change.”
Meaning — To lessen in intensity or degree
“The storm began to abate, allowing us to safely venture outside.”