What Verbs Are Followed by Infinitives?
In the English language, certain verbs are commonly followed by infinitives, which are the base forms of verbs without “to.” This construction, known as the “to-infinitive,” is used to express a variety of meanings, including purpose, intention, and necessity. Understanding which verbs typically follow this pattern is essential for mastering English grammar and forming coherent sentences. This article will explore some of the most common verbs that are followed by infinitives and provide examples to illustrate their usage.
Verbs of Purpose and Intention
One of the primary uses of the to-infinitive is to express purpose or intention. Verbs such as “mean,” “want,” “hope,” “intend,” “plan,” and “promise” are often followed by the to-infinitive to indicate what the subject desires or is committed to doing. For example:
– I mean to finish this project by the end of the week.
– She wants to travel the world before she starts a family.
– He hopes to find a solution to the problem soon.
Verbs of Necessity and Obligation
Verbs like “need,” “must,” “ought to,” and “should” are used to express necessity or obligation. When these verbs are followed by the to-infinitive, they convey a sense of urgency or importance. Examples include:
– You need to submit your assignment by the deadline.
– We must leave now or we’ll be late for the meeting.
– You ought to check the weather before you go outside.
– You should exercise regularly to maintain good health.
Verbs of Preference and Ability
Verbs such as “prefer,” “love,” “hate,” “like,” “dislike,” and “can” can be followed by the to-infinitive to express preference or ability. This construction helps clarify the subject’s feelings or capabilities. Consider the following examples:
– I prefer to walk to work rather than drive.
– She loves to dance in her free time.
– He can play the guitar, but he dislikes singing.
Verbs of Expectation and Requirement
Verbs like “expect,” “demand,” “require,” and “request” are often followed by the to-infinitive to express expectations or requirements for others. This construction is used to convey a sense of responsibility or obligation on the part of the subject. Examples include:
– The teacher expects us to be on time for class.
– The company demands that all employees complete the training program.
– The doctor requires that you take the medication as prescribed.
Conclusion
Understanding which verbs are followed by infinitives is crucial for constructing grammatically correct sentences in English. By recognizing the different functions of the to-infinitive, writers and speakers can convey a wide range of meanings, from purpose and intention to necessity and obligation. Familiarizing oneself with these patterns will enhance one’s ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken English.
