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FUNCTIONS OF A TO-INFINITIVE

1.1.To-infinitive as a Noun 

Grammatically, when functioning as a noun, a to-infinitive can function as a subject, an object, a subject complement, or an object complement. 

1.1.1 Read the following sentences and point out the functions of the underlined to- infinitives. 

  1. To learn a new language fluently takes time and practice.. Function: __________________ 

  2. The coach motivated the team to work hard during the off-season. Function: __________________ 


Subject 

To recruit good employees is difficult. 

Object 

She wants to quit her job. 

Subject complement 

The goal is to increase sales. 

Object complement 

He advised me to apply for the job. 

 

  1. My dream is to work for the HD Corporation. Function: __________________ 

  2. The manager wanted to interview three applicants. Function: __________________ 

  3. They need to solve the problem now. Function: __________________ 

  4. Jean helped me to complete the report. Function: __________________ 


1.1.2. Choose the correct option to complete each sentence. 

1. The SM Company needs ____________ more people. A. to hire B. hire C. to hiring
2. The purpose of the meeting is ____________ the issue. A. discussion B. discuss C. to discuss 

D. hired
D. discussed 

1.2. To-infinitive as an Adjective / Adverb
1.2.1. To-infinitive as an Adjective
A to-infinitive can follow a noun and functions as an adjective modifying that noun. 

He has a lot of work to do.
Ms. Smith has a business call to make. 

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1.2.2. To-infinitive as an Adverb 

A to-infinitive can function as an adverb and expresses a purpose / reason, a judgment, or a result. 

1.2.3. Read the following sentences and point out the functions of the underlined to- infinitives. 

1. They made a plan to visit the office in Chicago. Function: _____________________
2. She studies diligently to excel in her exams.. Function: _____________________ 

3. The first thing to do is to have a meeting with the staff. Function: _____________________
4. I am so glad to hear the news.
Function: _____________________ 

5. It is hard to find a place to park at this hour.
Function: _____________________
6. The team restructured its operations only to enhance efficiency. Function: _____________________ 

1.2.4. Choose the correct option to complete each sentence. 

1. Mr. Kim worked hard ____________ a promotion.
A. to get B. getting C. got D. get
2. All the staff members were surprised _____________ the bad news. A. heard B. hear C. hearing D. to hear 

 

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