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Infinitive Phrases. Definition . An infinitive is a verb form, usually beginning with the word “to,” that can act as a NOUN, ADJ or ADV. Infinitive phrases take on several functions in a sentence: Subject, DO, PN, ADJ or ADV. Examples.
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Definition • An infinitive is a verb form, usually beginning with the word “to,” that can act as a NOUN, ADJ or ADV. • Infinitive phrases take on several functions in a sentence: Subject, DO, PN, ADJ or ADV
Examples • Subject: To yodel on a mountaintop is an acquired skill, taking many years to perfect. • Direct Ob: Since he was six, Jean-Pierre has tried to yodel on a mountaintop. (tried what?) • Pred. Nom: Jean-Pierre’s life-long goal is to yodel on a mountaintop.(goal is what?)
Examples • Adj: The Alps is the perfect place to yodel on a mountaintop. (describes “place”) • Adv: To yodel on a mountaintop, Jean-Pierre will have to practice many more years. (tells WHY he will practice)
Identify the Infinitive phrase and its function • Many bees are needed to form a honeybee colony. • The queen bee’s main job is to lay eggs. • The drones, or male bees, exist only to mate. • The all-female worker bees have a lot more work to do. • They build the honeycomb as a place to raise young bees.