B1nounlanguageeducation
US/ɪnˈfɪn.ə.tɪv/
UK/ɪnˈfɪn.ɪ.tɪv/
the basic form of a verb, usually used with "to", as in "to go" or "to eat"
In context
In "I want to leave", the words "to leave" are an infinitive.
After "must" we use the infinitive without "to".
Many learners confuse the infinitive with the gerund after verbs like "enjoy".
Words that go with infinitive
adjective + noun
- bare infinitiveAfter modal verbs we use the bare infinitive.
- split infinitive"To boldly go" is a famous split infinitive.
noun + noun
- to-infinitiveUse a to-infinitive to show purpose.
- infinitive formWrite the infinitive form of each verb.
noun + preposition
- verb in the infinitiveLook for the verb in the infinitive.
verb + noun
- use the infinitiveUse the infinitive after "decide".
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I enjoy to swim.Correct: I enjoy swimming.
Incorrect:
She can to speak English.Correct: She can speak English.