An infinitive is the base form of a verb usually preceded by the word “to”. 👉 to + verb Examples: to eat, to play, to read 📚
Examples of Infinitives
Infinitive
Meaning
to run 🏃
(run)
to sing 🎤
(sing)
to dance 💃
(dance)
to learn 📘
(learn)
What is an Infinitive Phrase?
An infinitive phrase includes an infinitive + additional words (like objects or modifiers). Example: to read a story book 📖 → to read = infinitive → a story book = extra information
How Infinitives are Used in Sentences
Infinitives can act as:
Function
Example Sentence
Noun 🍎
I love to dance.
Adjective 🧩
She has a project to finish.
Adverb 🚀
He worked hard to win the prize.
Quick Identification Tips
If you see “to + verb”, it is usually an infinitive.
Check whether the phrase answers questions like: ✔️ What? → as a noun ✔️ Which one? → as an adjective ✔️ Why? → as an adverb
Examples to Understand Better
To learn English is important. ✍️ (Infinitive as subject – noun)
She needs a pen to write notes. 🖊️ (Infinitive phrase as adjective)
They exercised daily to stay fit. 💪 (Infinitive phrase as adverb – shows reason)
Beware! Not all “to” + word is an Infinitive
If “to” is followed by a noun or pronoun, it is not an infinitive. ❌ I am going to school. ✅ I love to play.
