Learn English | A new lesson every week
Book your course now

Elementary: Infinitives

Average: 4.3 (14 votes)

An infinitive is a verb combined with the word to. Most often, an infinitive acts as a noun in the sentence. Less frequently, it acts as an adjective or an adverb.

I want to go home early today.
I hope to be chosen as a member.
I prefer to go there earlier.
You need to consider various rules in writing sentences.
You have to explain your reasoning in detail.
You might wish to act as a teacher.
To leave for a vacation is my only wish at this time.
A common mistake in a relationship is not to trust the other person.
Help me to save the trees!
To be mentally healthy, you must read books.
Do you want me to fill out this form?
Here is our to-do list.
It was nice to meet you.
It is time to move on.
I am young enough to change my habits.
Don’t forget not to make grammar mistakes.
You are required to leave all your belongings here.
I came to see a doctor today.
You have to work harder to succeed.
I need to take three more classes to finish my graduate study.
I got closer to the speaker to listen clearly.
Be sure to check if you have tickets.
I am going to buy the new computer.

Generally, it is not common to split to and the verb except for when you want to emphasize the verb.

I want you to immediately stop doing that.
You have to seriously work hard to succeed.
You need to definitely explain your reasoning in detail.

Now choose the right form to complete the following:

  • 1. I want _ sailing next summer.



  • 2. Do you need _ any more shoes?



  • 3. You should _ out this afternoon. It’s a beautiful day.



  • 4. We tried _ to the speaker but the crowd was too noisy.



  • 5. I hope _ my exams with a high mark.