2. It all depends how the infinitive is being used in a sentence. Its two-sided character comes out clearly when it is used as the subject of a sentence. Infinitive clauses and phrases Repaso de tema ID: 939961 Language: English School subject: English as a Second Language (ESL) Grade/level: B2 Age: 15+ Main content: Infinitive clauses and phrases Other contents: Add to my workbooks (0) Download file pdf Embed in my website or blog Reducing Noun Clauses to Infinitive Phrases Part 1. He had a unique way of whistling.. To err is human. An infinitive is the simple form of a verb, usually proceeded by to. To flatter is not my custom. Infinitives are easy to spot because of their distinctive to + verb structure. Steps in finding the infinitive phrase: Read the sentence first. The infinitive phrase describes more information as to why John left school early. I heard her play the piano. Look for TO + VERB. CJ just enlightened us on catenative verbs, which can lead to "non-finite" clauses - that is, a clause without a real verb. “To join” is the infinitive phrase. Thus…..I desire to see you (compare I DESIRE A SIGHT OF YOU). Keep in mind that a noun can be a … Can you tell me how to reduce noun clauses? EXAMPLES 1. He liked skiing.. She had a suggestion to offer. It usually follows a verb of perception. The most important functions of an infinitive in the structure of a sentence are its use as Noun, Adverb and Adjective. 3. An infinitive phrase contains an infinitive, its objects, and its modifiers. All Free. To hope is our only resource. Both the complementary infinitive and the infinitive of purpose may be regarded as adverbial phrases modifying the verb. To jump is fun. Learn about each type of infinitive. While infinitives are the most basic form of a verb, infinitive phrases can be used as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. infinitive clause - WordReference English dictionary, questions, discussion and forums. 4. The infinitive is the base form of a verb with to.Usually it functions as a noun, although it can also function as an adjective or adverb. Infinitives are the most versatile type of verbals, words made from verbs that function as other parts of speech. Actually, this is an example of a reduced noun clause. Infinitive as Noun 1. In other words, it modifies “left,” which is the verb. To sleep was an impossibility. As a Subject of a Verb. Infinitive phrases can function as nouns, adjectives, and adverbs. Infinitives as Nouns. Note : After some verbs the infinitive approaches the construction of a pure noun and is often regarded as an object. For example, to reduce. I like to ski. Jumping is fun.. *** An infinitive phrase may or may not employ the use of commas. 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