Infinitive Form Examples

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Infinitive Form - Glossary of Terms

Infinitive Form

The infinitive form of a verb is usually preceded by "to" (e.g., to run, to dance, to think). The word "to" is not a preposition in this case; it is often called the "sign of the infinitive". An infinitive can be used as a noun, an adjective or an adverb.

Examples:

To dance was his ambition. (as a noun)

His ambition was to dance. (as a noun)

They need water to drink. (as an adjective)

The officer returned to help. (as an adverb)

After certain verbs the "to" is dropped.

Examples:

I helped her tidy the balcony. ("to" dropped from "to tidy")

They made him wait for a day. ("to" dropped from "to wait")

Interactive example:

I am leaving at 5 o'clock to raise the lobster pots before the storm. [show me the infinitive form]

Associated pages:

Basic form
To (infinitive verb) and too
Glossary of grammatical terms