The most obvious example is when an infinitive follows "can," "could," "may," "might," "must," "shall," "should," "will," or "would" (i.e., a modal verb). Most infinitives are preceded by "to," but after certain verbs, the "to" is dropped. Note how "to set" is grouped with "an example." This is an infinitive phrase.)īare Infinitives (When Not Preceded by "To") Therefore, the infinitive "to set an example" is being used an adverb. (The clause "so he can set an example" is an adverbial clause. He will complete the mission so he can set an example.(The infinitive modifies the verb "will complete." This means it is functioning as an adverb.)
(The clause "who is prepared to take the minutes" is an adjective clause. I need a volunteer who is prepared to take the minutes.(The infinitive modifies "volunteer." This means it is functioning as an adjective.) I need a volunteer to take the minutes.This proves that the infinitive "to polish" is being used an adjective.) (The clause "that he must polish" is an adjective clause. Give him an ornament that he can polish.(The infinitive modifies "ornament." This means it is functioning as an adjective.) Here are some examples of infinitive verbs as adjectives: You have to bear this in mind when working out how infinitives function as adjectives. (This proves that the infinitive "to hunt" is being used a noun.)Īn adjective modifies a noun to tell us something about the noun (e.g., its colour, type, or number). (The infinitive is the direct object of "likes.") (This proves that the infinitive "to dance" is being used a noun.) (The infinitive is the subject of "was.") Here are some examples of infinitive verbs as nouns:
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