Introduction
The infinitive is the basic form of a verb, and we use it to form other verbal tenses.
Form
There are two forms of the infinitive:
- The zero infinitive consists only of the base form of the verb (work).
- The to-infinitive consists of to and the base form of the verb (to work).
Example
Zero infinitive
- I can listen to music all day.
- He can dance really well.
- They can go to the circus.
To-infinitive
- I asked him to teach me to read.
- She loves to visit the cathedral.
- We hope to find the information office.
Use
Zero and to-infinitive are used as basis for the formation of other tenses.
Summary
The infinitive is the basic form of a verb. We can distinguish it into:
- Zero infinitive: base form of the verb.
- To-infinitive: base form of the verb preceded by to-.
For example:
— „She can play football.“
— „You love to play football.“
Let’s revise this content within the {Form} section. Take a look at the {Example} section that shows its use within a context.