Infinitives

What they are: Infinitives are base action verbs preceded by “to.” 

How they’re formed: to + action verb

How they’re used: Infinitives can be used as a noun (in any of its functions: subject, direct object, object of preposition, appositive, indirect object, predicate nominative), adjective, or adverb.  While these are the easiest to spot (because of the “to”), they are the hardest to categorize because they have three possible functions.

Examples: To teach is to touch a life forever. (both acting as nouns)  Our first attempt to make our science project failed miserably. (adjective modifying attempt)  To studyeffectively, you should first review difficult concepts.  (adverb modifying the verb phrase “should review”)

Note: Unlike traditional adjectives, adjectival infinitives come after the noun they modify.

Another note: Adverbial infinitives can be identified by adding “in order” before the infinitive.  (“In order” to study effectively, you should first review difficult material.)

Practice!  Is the infinitive acting as a noun, adjective, or adverb?  (Bonus: If noun, what function does it serve?If adverb, what, specifically, is it modifying?)

                We all have some things to think about.

                Stuart often pretends to study.

                To read is one of the best ways to improve your mind.

                You need three points to win.

                My only desire is to publish a novel.

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Answers

                Adjective

                Noun (direct object)

                Noun (subject)

                Noun (predicate nominative)

                Adverb (modifies verb “need”)