THE INFINITIVE

The infinitive is the basic form of a verb. It is the form of the verb that is found in dictionaries. In English, the infinitive of a verb is preceded by the word "to". For example, the infinitive of the verb "to walk" is "to walk".

Infinitives can be used in a variety of ways in English. They can be used as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.

Infinitives can also be used in some idiomatic phrases, such as "to be able to", "to have to", and "to want to".

I am able to walk to the store.

I have to walk to the store.

I want to walk to the store.

Examples:

• As a noun, an infinitive can be the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or the object of a preposition. For example:

To walk is good for your health.

I want to walk to the store. I saw her walking down the street.

• As an adjective, an infinitive can modify a noun. For example:

A walking stick is a helpful tool for people who have difficulty walking.

A talking bird is a popular pet.

• As an adverb, an infinitive can modify a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. For example:

I need to walk faster.

The talking bird is very clever.

I am happy to walk with you.

Use as noun (as subject and as CD)

Some examples of how to use the infinitive as a noun (both as a subject and as a complement of the verb):

• Subject

To swim is my favorite activity.

The only thing I want to do is sleep. Her dream is to become a doctor.

• Complement of the verb

I decided to go for a walk.

I asked her to help me with the dishes. They made us clean our rooms.

Use of the inifinitivo as a verbal complement in English.

An infinitive can be used as a verbal complement in English. A verbal complement is a verb that follows another verb and completes its meaning. In English, there are three types of verbal complements: infinitives, gerunds, and participles. An infinitive complement is a verb that follows another verb and is preceded by the word "to". For example:

• Infinitive complements can be used with a variety of verbs, including:

• Verbs of intention such as "decide", "intend", and "want".

• Verbs of ability such as "be able", "can", and "may".

• I decided to go for a walk.

• I asked her to help me with the dishes.

• They made us clean our rooms.

In these sentences, the infinitives "to go for a walk","to help me with the dishes", and "to clean our rooms" are verbal complements.

• Verbs of permission such as "allow", "permit", and "let".

• Verbs of request such as "ask", "beg", and "demand".

• Verbs of order such as "command", "direct", and "instruct".

They complete the meaning of the verbs "decided", "asked", and "made".

• I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.