Infinitive Phrases

What is an Infinitive? Looks like a verb Begins with the word “to” Acts like a Noun Libby offered to help acts as a Direct Object Acts like an Adjective The player to watch is the quarterback. Describes “player” Acts like an Adverb Mr. Smith rose to speak. Modifies the verb “rose” Looks like a verb Begins with the word “to”

The Infinitive Phrase May be modified by an adverb “To interrupt abruptly is impolite.” The infinitive phrase acts as the subject “abruptly” is an adverb modifying the infinitive …or prepositional phrases “She is the person to see about the job.” The infinitive phrase describes “person” “about the job” is an adverbial prep. Phrase modifying the infinitive.

The Infinitive Phrase (cont.) May have a compliment (like a direct object in a regular sentence) “They were glad to hear an answer.” The infinitive phrase “to hear an answer” is used as an adverb modifying the predicate adjective “glad.” “an answer” acts as a direct object to the infinitive (aka an answer to the question “to hear what?”)

The Infinitive Phrase (cont.) …and the exception to the rule. Sometimes the infinitive OMITS the word “to” “Cathy did not dare tell us the bad news.” “(to) tell us the bad news” acts as a direct object (aka noun) in the sentence “We have done everything except make the beds.” “(to) make the beds” acts as the object of the preposition “except” (aka noun)

Preposition or Infinitive? I went to the store. I want to go, too. He fell to the bottom of the pit He is going to fall down. To the extreme, I rock a mic like a vandal. I am going to wax a chump like a candle. I am going to go to the store.