The infinitive form is a basic verb form in English that does not change according to tense. In this article, IDP will guide you through everything you need to know about infinitives and how to use them correctly in IELTS and everyday English.
Understanding infinitives is essential for English learners, especially for those preparing for the IELTS exam. So what exactly is an infinitive and how is it used? Let us explore this important grammar point and practice with useful exercises and answers.
1. What Is an Infinitive?
An infinitive, also known as the base form of a verb (denoted as V1), is the original form of the verb. It does not change with subject or tense.
There are five forms of verb infinitives in English:
Simple infinitive
Perfect infinitive
Perfect continuous infinitive
Continuous infinitive
Passive infinitive
Among these, the simple infinitive is the most commonly used. It comes in two forms:
To-infinitive (to + V1)
Example: She promised to visit her grandparents next month.
Bare infinitive (without "to")
Example: You had better not consume excessive caffeine before sleeping.
2. How to Use the To-Infinitive
The to-infinitive is used to express purpose, intention, or describe future actions.
To express purpose or intention
Example:
He enrolled in a language course to improve his communication skills.
Our team is working hard to meet the project deadline.
As the subject of a sentence
Example:
To establish a tech startup is his biggest ambition.
To build healthy relationships and to pursue passions are essential for a happy life.
As the object of a verb or adjective
Structure: S + to be + adj + (for/of someone) + to infinitive Example:
She is eager for him to present his ideas at the conference.
It can also act as an object of a verb:
The teacher urged her students to join the science competition.
After question words (except "why")
Example:
My tutor explained what to do to improve my IELTS score.
In the structure "Verb + Object + To Infinitive"
Example:
I expect her to give a great presentation.
3. How to Use the Bare Infinitive
The bare infinitive is the verb without "to" and is commonly used after modal verbs, verbs of perception, and certain causative verbs.
After modal verbs
Example:
You should explore new solutions for the project.
After verbs of perception (see, hear, feel, etc.)
Structure: S + perception verb + object + V1 or V-ing Example:
She felt the sun warm her skin.
After "make", "let", and "help"
Structure: S + make/let/help + object + V1 Example:
My teacher let us choose our project topics.
After "had better" or "would better"
Example:
You had better prepare well for the test.
I would better avoid procrastinating.
4. Difference Between Gerunds and Infinitives
Feature | Gerund | Infinitive |
|---|---|---|
Form | Verb + ing | to + base verb |
Function | Acts like a noun, describes habits | Describes goals or intentions |
Use | After prepositions, expressing routines | After verbs showing desire, after adjectives |
Example | Practicing yoga reduces stress. | He aims to improve his skills. |
5. Infinitive Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with the correct verb form
The researchers aim ___ (discover) new methods.
I witnessed her ___ (perform) at the concert.
The manager insisted ___ (review) the proposal.
I encouraged him ___ (participate) in the workshop.
She appears ___ (see) the problem clearly.
They invited us ___ (join) them for dinner.
The coach let the players ___ (practice) longer.
I would prefer ___ (discuss) this in person.
We ought ___ (explore) other options.
He assisted her ___ (navigate) the new role.
Answers:
to discover
perform
on reviewing
to participate
to see
to join
practice
to discuss
to explore
in navigating
Exercise 2: Form complete sentences using to-infinitive or bare infinitive
She / intend / pursue / masters degree / environmental science → She intends to pursue a master's degree in environmental science.
I / require / assist / compiling / data / report → I require assistance in compiling the data for the report.
They / allow / us / participate / community / project → They allowed us to participate in the community project.
We / desire / enhance / skills / public speaking → We desire to enhance our skills in public speaking.
He / should / consider / implications / his decisions → He should consider the implications of his decisions.
Master the Use of Infinitives to Improve Your IELTS Grammar
Understanding how to use the infinitive is essential not only for English grammar but also for improving your performance on the IELTS exam. Infinitives help you express intentions and actions more clearly. With regular practice, you can boost both your grammar and writing fluency.
When preparing with IDP, you can take the IELTS computer-delivered test at flexible times and convenient locations across the country.
Register for your IELTS test with IDP today and start your journey to success.