THE INFINITIVE

VERBS NORMALLY FOLLOWED BY THE INFINITIVE

C. These are the most common of the verbs followed by a to-infinitive, with or without a noun.

Example

  • I asked him to show me the book.
  • I asked to see the book.

ask*
beg*
choose
dare
desire*
elect

expect*
help
mean* (=intend)
request*
want
wish*

The verbs marked * can also be followed by a that-clause

Note:

dare: In negative and interrogative sentences the infinitive with or without 'to' is possible, though it is more common to omit the 'to':

  • I never dared tell him what happened.
  • Dare you tell him the news?
  • Would you dare (to) jump out of a plane?

Examples

We've chosen John to represent the company at the conference.

  • The driver didn't try to stop after the accident.
  • We expect you to do your best in the exam.
  • Do you want to go to the beach?
  • Do you want me to go with you to the beach?
  • You are requested to be quiet in this library.



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