The functions of the infinitive

The finite verb has only one function in the sentence – that of the predicate (or part of it). The infinitive can be any part of the sentence but the predicate.

The infinitive can have various functions in the sentence.

1.4.1. The infinitive can be used as the subject of a sentence, often introduced by the "anticipatory it":

To ease credit restrictions at this stage would be unwise.

It's difficult to find a place to park in the city centre.

Do you think it is safe to drink this water?

It's a surprise to be invited.

The infinitive cannot be used as the predicate of a sentence but it can be part of the predicate (nominal or verbal).

In the nominal predicate the infinitive is either a predicative or a secondary predicative.

The infinitive used after a link verb is a predicative:

Her first impulse was to scream.

My aim is to start up my own company.

The infinitive used after a link verb and an adjective is a secondary predicative (the adjective and the infinitive are closely connected and form the second part of the nominal predicate, i.e. a predicative).

The infinitive in this pattern usually refers to things done to someone or something. The subject of the sentence is also an object of the action of the infinitive.

She is amusing to be with.

English is difficult to learn well.

Do you think this water is safe to drink?

1.4.2.3. The infinitive used after an aspective or a modal verb is part of a compound verbal predicate. The infinitive is used in this function after:

1) aspective verbs (denoting the beginning, the duration or the end of an action):

The whole building suddenly began to shake.

Mr Adams said that he would not hesitate to call the police if the party continued to disturb the entire street.

2) modal verbs and the expressions had better, would rather:

Life belts must not be removed.

Everyone knows what they have to do, don't they?

Passengers should check in at the airport thirty minutes before take-off.

We'd better stop for petrol soon. The tank is almost empty.

1.4.3. The infinitive is used as an object to verbs expressing:

1) order, request, permission, etc. such as to order, bid, beg, ask, implore, promise, allow, permit, help, assist, persuade, advise:

A rather officious policeman demanded to see my driving licence.

The defeated champion swore to have his revenge.

2) mental perception and emotions, such as to forget, remember, learn, prefer, love, like, hate, bear (can't bear):

We all love to talk about ourselves.

I can't bear to see people suffering.

3) to some adjectives and adjectivized participles: happy, glad, pleased, delighted, sorry, afraid, angry, astonished:

I was afraid to go near the dog because I was afraid of being bitten.

I was surprised to hear that Diane had got a new job.

Date: 2015-04-20; view: 2006