Identify infinitives and infinitive phrases

Key Notes:

Definition of Infinitive:

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word “to.”

  • Example: to run, to eat, to sing.

Function of Infinitives:

Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.

  • As a noun: To read is enjoyable.
  • As an adjective: She has a book to read.
  • As an adverb: He went to the store to buy milk.

Infinitive Phrases:

An infinitive phrase consists of the infinitive and any modifiers or complements.

  • Example: to quickly finish the project or to play the guitar beautifully.

Identifying Infinitives:

Look for the word “to” followed by a verb. If it acts as a noun, adjective, or adverb, it is an infinitive.

  • Example: In the sentence I want to learn, “to learn” is the infinitive.

Identifying Infinitive Phrases:

  • Find the infinitive and any words that modify it or complete its meaning.
  • Example: In He decided to take the bus to work, the phrase “to take the bus to work” is an infinitive phrase.

Common Mistakes:

  • Do not confuse infinitives with gerunds, which are verbs ending in -ing and function as nouns.
    • Example: Running is fun (gerund).
  • Example of an infinitive vs. a gerund:
    • Infinitive: to swim is refreshing.
    • Gerund: swimming is refreshing.

Practice Identifying:

  • Provide sentences and ask students to underline the infinitives and circle the infinitive phrases.
  • Practice example: I love to dance at parties.

Let’s practice!🖊️