Understanding Infinitives: Usage and Examples in Sentences
Infinitives are verbal phrases that typically begin with "to" and can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence. For instance, in "Eileen Collins had a goal to pursue," "to pursue" serves as a noun representing the goal. Infinitives can also describe qualities, as in "to give something back to society is important," or explain reasons, such as "I needed milk to make my husband’s birthday cake." Distinguishing between infinitives and prepositional phrases is crucial for clarity in writing; ensure "to" is followed by a verb to identify infinitives correctly.
Understanding Infinitives: Usage and Examples in Sentences
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Presentation Transcript
Phrases Infinitives
Infinitives • Verbal phrase (word that is usually a verb) that begins with the word “to” • Can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb Ex: Eileen Collins had a goal to pursue.
Examples • Woods was the first person to work with charity organizations. • Adj (describes what kind of person) • To give something back to society is important • Noun (subject of sentence) • It’s a shame that so few sports stars are willing to help people in need. • Adv (why they are willing)
Be Careful! • “to” is also a preposition. Make sure it is being used with a verb: only then is it an infinitive phrase
Prep or Infinitive? • I went to the store yesterday • I had to get milk. • I needed milk to make my husband’s birthday cake. • The cake is very special to him.
