15/06/2026
Infinitive
An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by “to.”
Examples:
to eat
to write
to play
It can act as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence.
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Types of Infinitives
1. Simple Infinitive
Structure: to + base verb
Used for actions happening at the same time or after the main verb.
Examples:
I want to learn English.
She hopes to win the prize.
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2. Bare Infinitive
Infinitive without “to.”
Used after:
modal verbs (can, may, must, etc.)
let, make, help, etc.
Examples:
You must study hard.
She made me cry.
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3. Perfect Infinitive
Structure: to have + past participle
Shows an action completed before the main verb.
Examples:
He seems to have forgotten the meeting.
She is happy to have finished the work.
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4. Continuous Infinitive
Structure: to be + verb-ing
Shows an action continuing at a particular time.
Examples:
They appear to be waiting outside.
He seems to be sleeping.
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5. Perfect Continuous Infinitive
Structure: to have been + verb-ing
Shows a continuing action that happened before the main verb.
Examples:
She seems to have been crying.
He is said to have been working all night.
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6. Passive Infinitive
Structure: to be + past participle
Used when the subject receives the action.
Examples:
The work needs to be completed.
He wants to be respected.
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7. Perfect Passive Infinitive
Structure: to have been + past participle
Shows a completed passive action before the main verb.
Examples:
The thief is believed to have been arrested.
The letter seems to have been sent already.
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Functions of an Infinitive
As a Noun
To read is enjoyable.
As an Adjective
I need a book to study.
As an Adverb
She came here to help me.
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Quick Summary Table
Type Structure Example
Simple to + verb to go
Bare verb only go
Perfect to have + V3 to have gone
Continuous to be + V-ing to be going
Perfect Continuous to have been + V-ing to have been going
Passive to be + V3 to be chosen
Perfect Passive to have been + V3 to have been chosen
