Definition & Meaning of "infinitive"in English

Infinitive

NOUN

(grammar) the root form of a verb

Grammatical Information

Animacy status

Abstract

Composition

Compound

Countable

Plural form

infinitives

What is an "infinitive"?

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word "to." It is not limited by tense or subject, allowing it to function in various ways within a sentence. Infinitives can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. For example, in the sentence "I want to read," the phrase "to read" is an infinitive acting as the object of the verb "want." Infinitives are important for expressing intentions, desires, or actions, and they help convey meaning in a flexible manner within sentences.

Examples

In English grammar, the infinitive is the base form of a verb, typically preceded by " to. "

Lexical Tree