The bare infinitive is the use of the verb in the infinitive form without to. We use the bare infinitive after: modal verbs, let, make, and help, some verbs of perception and expressions with why. Let’s learn about each of these in greater detail:

 

➡ Use 1: After modal verbs

 

Examples:

- She can speak great English.

- We could go to the movie theatre.

- They will be late. I would like a new cell phone.

- It may rain on the weekend.

- I might be late coming home today.

- Shall we meet at 8:00?

- She really should study more.

- You must try that new restaurant.

- You could go to the store.

 

There is one exception: the modal verb ought takes to + the infinitive.

Example:

I ought to visit my parents more often.

 

➡ Use 2: After let, make, and help

Here, let, make, and help are always followed by the object + bare infinitive.

 

Examples:

- Let’s go

- Help John do it.

- John made Katie cry.

- The music made him want to dance.

 

There is one exception: in the passive, make takes to + the infinitive.

Example:

He was made to open his backpack.

 

➡ Use 3: After some verbs of perception (see, look at, hear, listen to, feel, watch,sense)

 

We can use either the bare infinitive or the gerund with many verbs of perception. The meaning of the verb is slightly different depending on which one we choose.

 

Examples:

- I saw her cross the road. = I saw the whole action from start to finish

- I saw her crossing the road. = I saw part of the action, not the whole thing.

 

➡ Use 4: After expressions with why

Example:

- Why go home early? Why study English? Why not live in New York?

 

Let’s practice!

 

Write in the comments section sentences with the bare infinitive.

 

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