What is an Infinitive Phrase?

ElevatEd
English
March 22, 2025

English grammar has a lot of rules and divisions. One such important part is that of phrases. A phrase is a sentence that is used in various situations. Infinitive phrases are an essential part of English grammar, allowing us to express complex ideas and actions in a concise and meaningful way. They consist of an infinitive verb form and any accompanying words, such as objects, modifiers, or complements.

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Definition

An infinitive phrase is a phrase that begins with the infinitive form of a verb, which is the base form of the verb preceded by the word "to." It functions as a single unit, often serving as a noun, adjective, or adverb within a sentence.

Examples

To eat breakfast is essential for a healthy start.

Here, "to eat breakfast" is an infinitive phrase functioning as a noun.

The best way to learn a new language is through immersion.

In this example, "to learn a new language" is an infinitive phrase functioning as an adjective.

She went to buy some milk.

Here, "to buy some milk" is an infinitive phrase functioning as an adverb.

Infinitive phrases can be used in various ways to add depth and complexity to our writing and speaking.

Types of Infinitive Phrases

Noun Infinitive Phrases

Definition: Function as nouns within a sentence.

Examples:

"To travel" is my favorite thing to do.
Breakdown: "To travel" is the subject of the sentence.
I love "to read books" before bed.
Breakdown: "to read books" is the object of the verb "love".

Adjective Infinitive Phrases

Definition: Modify nouns or pronouns within a sentence.

Examples:

The book "to read on vacation" is on the bestseller list.

Breakdown: "to read on vacation" modifies the noun "book".

The teacher gave us homework "to complete by tomorrow".

Breakdown: "to complete by tomorrow" modifies the noun "homework".

Adverb Infinitive Phrases

Definition: Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs within a sentence.

Examples:

She went "to buy some milk".

Breakdown: "to buy some milk" modifies the verb "went".

He came "to apologize for his mistake".

Breakdown: "to apologize for his mistake" modifies the verb "came".

Complement Infinitive Phrases

Definition: Complete the meaning of a linking verb.

Examples:

The best way "to learn a new language" is through immersion.

Breakdown: "to learn a new language" completes the meaning of the linking verb "is".

My goal "to become a doctor" requires a lot of hard work.

Breakdown: "to become a doctor" completes the meaning of the linking verb "is".

Modifier Infinitive Phrases

Definition: Modify other words or phrases within a sentence.

Examples:

The new employee was eager "to take on new challenges".

Breakdown: "to take on new challenges" modifies the adjective "eager".

The company is looking "to hire more staff".

Breakdown: "to hire more staff" modifies the verb "is looking".

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step-by-step guide on how to identify an infinitive phrase:

Step 1: Look for the Infinitive Verb Form

The infinitive verb form starts with the word "to" followed by the base form of the verb. Examples: to eat, to run, to learn.

Step 2: Check for Accompanying Words

Infinitive phrases often include accompanying words such as:

Objects: nouns or pronouns that receive the action of the verb
Modifiers: adverbs or adjectives that modify the verb
Complements: words or phrases that complete the meaning of the verb

Step 3: Determine the Function of the Infinitive Phrase

Infinitive phrases can function as:

Nouns: subjects, complements, or objects of a sentence
Adjectives: modifying nouns or pronouns
Adverbs: modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs

Step 4: Analyze the Sentence Structure

Infinitive phrases can be used in various sentence structures, such as:

As a subject: "To travel is my dream."
As a complement: "My goal is to become a doctor."
As an object: "I want to learn how to play the guitar."
As an adjective: "The book is difficult to read."
As an adverb: "She sings beautifully to entertain the audience."

Examples

"I want to learn how to play the guitar." (Infinitive phrase as an object)
"The best way to learn a new language is through immersion." (Infinitive phrase as an adjective)
"She went to buy some milk." (Infinitive phrase as an adverb)

By following these steps, you can accurately identify infinitive phrases in sentences.

Key takeaways:

Infinitive phrases begin with the infinitive form of a verb (to + base form)
They function as a single unit, serving as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs
Infinitive phrases can express purpose, intention, or action
They add complexity and nuance to language

By mastering infinitive phrases, we can improve our communication skills, express ourselves more effectively, and convey our ideas with precision and clarity. In conclusion, infinitive phrases are a fundamental component of English grammar, enabling us to express intricate ideas, actions, and purposes in a concise and meaningful manner. By understanding the structure and functions of infinitive phrases, we can enhance our language skills, convey complex thoughts, and add depth to our writing and speaking.

FAQs

Q1: What is the difference between an infinitive phrase and a prepositional phrase?

Ans: An infinitive phrase begins with the word "to" followed by a verb, while a prepositional phrase begins with a preposition (such as "in," "on," or "at") followed by a noun or pronoun.

Q2: Can infinitive phrases be used as subjects or objects?

Ans: Yes, infinitive phrases can be used as subjects or objects in a sentence. For example:

"To travel" is my favorite thing to do. (Infinitive phrase as subject)
I love "to read books" before bed. (Infinitive phrase as object)

Q3: How do I identify an infinitive phrase in a sentence?

Ans: To identify an infinitive phrase, look for the word "to" followed by a verb. The phrase may also include objects, modifiers, or complements.

Q4: Can infinitive phrases be modified by adverbs or adjectives?

Ans: Yes, infinitive phrases can be modified by adverbs or adjectives. For example:

"To carefully read the instructions" is important. (Adverb "carefully" modifies the infinitive phrase)
"The best way to learn a new language" is through immersion. (Adjective "best" modifies the infinitive phrase)

Q5: Are infinitive phrases always introduced by the word "to"?

Ans: Al most always. Infinitive phrases are typically introduced by the word "to," but there are some exceptions, such as infinitive phrases that begin with "for" or "in order to."