Words and Phrases Followed by the Infinitive (clear guide for B1–B2 learners)
An infinitive is the base form of a verb. In English, we use:
- the full infinitive (to + verb)
- the bare infinitive (verb without “to”)
In this lesson, you’ll learn when and why English uses each form, with clear examples you can use confidently in speaking and writing — especially in exams.
When do we use the full infinitive (to + verb)?
To express purpose
We often use to + verb to explain why someone does something.
- They went to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower.
- She called me to invite me to a party.
After certain adjectives
Common adjectives include: glad, happy, pleased, surprised, hard, easy, difficult
- I’m glad to see you.
- It’s hard to manage so many responsibilities.
After certain verbs
Very common verbs are: want, decide, hope, expect, refuse, agree, promise, seem, appear
- Tim decided to study chemistry.
- Her health appeared to improve after the treatment.
After would like / would love / would prefer
Used to talk about polite wishes or preferences.
- I’d like to have a glass of water, please.
- I’d prefer to go for a walk rather than stay at home.
After question words
(what, where, how, when, who) + infinitive
- I don’t know how to turn on the heater.
- Peter wasn’t sure where to submit his documents.
After too and enough
Used to describe ability or possibility.
- She’s too young to drive.
- He’s clever enough to solve the problem.
After certain nouns
Common in formal or polite language.
- It’s a pleasure to work with you.
- She made an effort to improve her English.
When do we use the bare infinitive (without to)?
After modal verbs
(can, could, must, should, may, might, will, would)
- She can swim very well.
- You should see a dentist.
After had better and would rather
- You’d better fasten your seat belt.
- I’d rather stay at home tonight.
After make, let, see, hear + object
(verbs of perception and permission)
- They saw Tom cross the street.
- My parents never let me stay out late.
Common mistake to avoid
❌ She made me to do it.
✅ She made me do it.
✅ She made me do it.
❌ I prefer go out.
✅ I prefer to go out.
✅ I prefer to go out.
Exam tip
Using infinitives correctly helps you:
- show grammatical range
- avoid basic errors
- sound more natural in B2 First & C1 Advanced writing and speaking
A small word like to can make a big difference.
Do the quiz o perfect your knowledge about words and phrases followed by infinitive:
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