In English grammar, the object + infinitive construction is a versatile and essential structure used to express actions, intentions, or desires related to specific objects or subjects. This article delves into the mechanics, usage, and recommendations for effectively employing the object + infinitive construction in writing and conversation.
What is the Object + Infinitive Construction?
The object + infinitive construction involves pairing a verb in its infinitive form (to + base form of the verb) with a direct object. This structure allows speakers and writers to convey additional information about what someone does or intends to do in relation to a particular object. For example:
- “She wants him to help with the project.”
- “They advised us to reconsider our plans.”
- “He expects the team to win the championship.”
In each sentence, the object + infinitive construction highlights the action (help, reconsider, win) that relates directly to the object (him, us, the team).
Usage and Application
1. Expressing Desires and Intentions:
- The object + infinitive structure is commonly used to express desires, intentions, or requests concerning specific objects or individuals.
- Example: “She asked her brother to pick up groceries.”
2. Reporting Verbs:
- Verbs like advise, ask, expect, want, invite, and instruct are often followed by an object + infinitive to report someone’s actions, intentions, or commands.
- Example: “The teacher told the students to finish their assignments.”
3. Perception Verbs:
- Verbs such as see, hear, watch, and notice are used with the object + infinitive to describe what someone observes or perceives.
- Example: “I watched him play the guitar.”
4. Causative Verbs:
- Causative verbs like make, let, have, and get are also followed by the object + infinitive to indicate causing someone to do something.
- Example: “She made her children clean their rooms.”
5. Modals and Auxiliaries:
- Modal verbs (can, could, may, might, should, would, etc.) and auxiliaries (will, shall, must) are sometimes paired with the object + infinitive to express ability, possibility, obligation, or future actions.
- Example: “You should get the car serviced.”
Advantages of Using Object + Infinitive
- Clarity and Specificity: This construction provides clarity by specifying the action or intention in relation to a particular object, avoiding ambiguity.
- Conciseness: It allows for concise expression of complex ideas or commands, making sentences more direct and impactful.
- Grammatical Structure: Mastering the object + infinitive structure enhances grammatical proficiency and fluency in English writing and speaking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Misplacement of Objects: Ensure the object directly follows the verb before introducing the infinitive.
- Subject-Verb Agreement: Maintain consistency in subject-verb agreement when constructing sentences using object + infinitive.
- Choosing Appropriate Verbs: Use appropriate verbs that naturally take an object + infinitive structure to convey meaning effectively.
The object + infinitive construction in English grammar offers a versatile way to convey intentions, desires, or actions related to specific objects or individuals. Whether reporting, perceiving, causing, or expressing commands, mastering this structure enhances communication clarity and grammatical accuracy. By understanding its usage and following recommendations for effective application, writers and speakers can enrich their language proficiency and convey ideas with precision and impact. Incorporating the object + infinitive into everyday communication enhances fluency and ensures clear expression of thoughts, intentions, and actions in both formal and informal contexts.