INFINITIVE

UNIT 7 GRAMMAR: INFINITIVE
Infinitive as Subject
a) We can use the to-infinitive as a subject (eg To know how to drive is useful) but this is unusual.
When we use the to-infinitive as a subject, it is more usual to begin the sentence with it (as a
"preparatory subject").
It is useful to know how to drive.
It isn't expensive to play tennis in England.
b) The infinitive is the complement of subject + BE
Your mistake was to send him that letter.
Verb + infinitive
Salesman: As you see, when we try to clean even the dirtiest part of your carpet there is no problem for
this vacuum-cleaner.
Customer: But how easily can I learn to operate this machine? It seems to be extremely complicated to
me.
Salesman: If you want to know how to get the best out of your new Dirt-Up vacuum cleaner you
should read this brochure. It tells you everything you need to know.
If these verbs are followed by another verb, the structure is usually verb + to-infinitive:
1. afford I can't afford to buy it.
2. agree They agreed to help us.
3. appear She appears to be tired.
4. arrange I'll arrange to meet you at the airport.
5. decide I have decided to leave on Monday.
6. expect I expect to be back on Sunday.
7. fail She failed to return the book to the library on
time.
8. forget I forgot to mail the letter.
9. happen I happened to be passing his house at that time.
10. hope Jack hopes to arrive next week.
11. intend He intended to meet me at the station.
12. learn He learned to play the piano.
13. manage She managed to finish her work early.

14. mean I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.
15. need I need to have your opinion.
16. offer They offered to help us.
17. plan I am planning to have a party.
18. prepare We prepared to welcome them.
19. pretend He pretends not to understand.
20. promise I promise not to be late.
21. prove He proved to be a good doctor.
22. refuse I refuse to believe his story.
23. seem The dog seems to be friendly.
24. threaten They threatened to tell my parents.
25. want I want to tell you something.
26. wish She wishes to come with us.
There is a continuous infinitive (to be doing) and a perfect infinitive (to have done). We use these
especially after seem, appear, happen and pretend:
I pretended to be reading. (= I pretended that I was reading.) You seem to have lost weight. (= It seems
that you have lost weight.)
She appeared to have been cleaning the house since the morning. (= It appeared that she had been
cleaning the house since the morning.)
After the following verbs you can use a question word (what/ where/how etc.) + to-infinitive:
ask decide know remember forget explain understand
I don't know what to say.
We asked how to get to the station.
Have you decided where to go for your holidays?
I'll explain what to do later on.
I don't know whether to go to the party or not.
We often use this structure with an object + question word + to-infinitive.
I'll show you how to play chess. Somebody told me where to buy a ticket.
Alec: I don't know where to go and what to do.
George: Why don't you go to the cinema? There are a couple

of good films on at the moment. Alec: That's another problem. I don't know which to see.
I don't know whether to choose "Star Wars" or "Love
Story".
Verb + object + infinitive
I. These verbs normally take the structure verb + object + to-infinitive:
1. advise She advised me to wait until tomorrow.
2. allow She allowed me to use her car.
3. ask I asked John to help us.
4. beg They begged us to come.
5. convince I couldn't convince him to accept our
offer.
6. expect I expect you to be on time.
7. forbid I forbid you to tell him.
8. force They forced him to tell the truth.
9. get (= persuade) She got her son to do his homework.
10. hire She hired a boy to mow the lawn.
11. instruct He instructed them to be careful.
12. invite Harry invited the Johnsons to come to
his party.
13. order The judge ordered me to pay a fine.
14. permit He permitted the children to stay up
late.
15. persuade I persuaded him to come for a visit.
16. remind She reminded me to lock the door.
17. teach My brother taught me to swim.
18. tell The doctor told me to take these pills.
19. urge I urged her to apply for the j ob.
20. want I want you to be happy.
21. warn I warned you not to drive so fast.
Note: After help you can use the infinitive with to or without to: Can somebody help me (to) move this

table?
2. Make (= force), have (= ask) and let (= allow) These verbs
have the structure verb + infinitive without to:
I only did it because they made me do it.(= forced me to do it)
Hot weather makes me feel uncomfortable. (= causes me
to feel)
Jane had the waiter bring her some tea. (= asked)
I had the plumber repair the leak. (= asked)
They let their children stay up late at weekends. (= allow)
Will you let me use your camera? (= allow)
Compare the use of causative verbs make, have, get:
a) I made my brother carry my suitcase. (= forced)
b) I had my brother carry my suitcase. (= asked)
c) I got my brother to carry my suitcase. (= persuaded)
Note: After the passive verb the infinitive is always with to: Everyone was made to take the exam.
We do not use the verb letin the passive. We use allow instead. Mr Jones was allowed to leave early.
/ want (you) to speak to him
There are two possible structures after these words: want, expect, hate, like, dislike, love, cannot bear,
prefer, wish, would like, would prefer.
verb + to-infinitive I want to help her. We expected to be late. He would like to come. I'd prefer to stay
at home. I hate to be punished.
verb + object + to-infinitive I want him to help her. We expected her to be late. He would like me to
come. I'd prefer you to stay at home. I hate him to be punished.
I cannot bear to read in bed.
I cannot bear him to read in bed.
/ know him to be an honest man
We can use that or to-infinitive after these verbs to refer to people or things: believe, consider, find,
imagine, know, suppose, think.
Instead of: People know (that) he is an honest man. We can say: People know him to be an honest
man. Instead of: I thought that the lecture was useful. We can say: I thought the lecture to be useful.

It is said that he.../He is said to... etc.
1. When we talk about what other people say, believe, etc. we can use two possible passive forms.
Compare:
Active: People say that Mr Ross is a millionaire.
Passive (I): It + passive + that-clause
It is said that Mr Ross is a millionaire. Passive (2): Subject + passive + to-infinitive
Mr Ross is said to be a millionaire.
We often use these passive forms in a formal style and with verbs such as: say, think, believe,
consider, know, report, expect
— It is believed that they own a lot of land in the north. They are believed to own a lot of land in the
north.
— It is reported that the president is seriously ill. The president is reported to be seriously ill.
— It is expected that a new law will be introduced next year.
A new law is expected to be introduced next year.
When the belief, etc refers to an earlier action, we use the perfect infinitive. Compare:
— It is believed that the fire started late last night. The fire is believed to have started late last night.
— It was thought that two prisoners had escaped. Two prisoners were thought to have escaped.
2. Be supposed to
We can use supposed to to mean "said to ".
— I'd like to read that book. It's supposed to be very good. (= It is said to be very good.)
— He's supposed to have been married before. (= He is said to have been married before.)
Supposed to sometimes suggests some doubt about whether something is true or not.
Note that we also use supposed to to say what people are expected to do because of an arrangement, a
rule, or a duty eg I'm supposed to see Maria this afternoon.
Infinitive of purpose
Jill: Hi, Sally. I've come to show you my new records. I went to buy a sweater, but then I heard this
record playing...
Sally: I suppose when you go to buy records you usually come out of the shop with clothes!
a) The infinitive with to frequently expresses purpose, indicating that one action will follow another:
— I have come to apologise.

— I sent Mrs Bacon a bunch of flowers to thank her for the party.
— We shouted to warn everyone of the danger.
You can also use in order or so as + to-mfinitive:
— We shouted in order to warn everyone of the danger.
(so as)
— Some speakers hesitate so as to choose the right word.
(in order)
In order and so as + to-infinitive are more formal than the infinitive of purpose with to.
I am going to England to improve my English.
I am going to England in order (so as) to improve my
English.
Note: You can never express purpose with/or plus an infinitive. You cannot say: I am going to England
for to learn English, b) So (that)
So (that) is used to express purpose in the following situations: (i) with can or could
I'd like to work in the afternoons so (that) I can study in the mornings.
We moved to London so (that) we could visit our friends more often.
(ii) when the purpose is negative:
You'd better take a map so (that) you won't get lost. I hurried so that I wouldn't be late. (= because I
didn't want' to be late)
(iii) when the subject of the main clause is different from the subject of the purpose clause:
I gave him my address so that he could contact me. He wore glasses and a false beard so that nobody
would recognize him.
The infinitive after nouns and pronouns
Son: I'm really bored. I've got nothing to do.
Mother: You're lucky! I've got the kitchen to clean, the dinner
to cook and the shopping to do! Why don't you help
me? You could make a cake. Son: That's all right. I've just found a comic to read!
— We have a problem to discuss. (= We have a problem which we should discuss.)
— I've got a comic to read. (= I've got a comic which I can read.)
— I have an exercise to do. (= I have an exercise which I must do.)

— The book tells you about walks to take. (= which you can take)
— There are a lot of museums to visit. (= which you can visit)
The infinitive after adjectives
Chris: You were very kind to lend me your bike. I was just too lazy to walk all the way to the bank.
Ian: That's all right. Now you can be good enough to pay me the money that you owe me.
a) The to-infinitive often follows an adjective:
— I'm ready to go to school.
— We were sorry to hear the bad news.
— I was surprised to see Tim at the meeting.
b)You can use a phrase with of after adjectives:
— It's good of you to come.
— It was silly of Peter not to tell anyone.
c) Note.—I'm eager to please. = I am very keen to please someone
else.
— I'm easy to please. = It is easy for someone else to please me.
— He is easy to teach. = He is an easy pupil to teach, or It is easy to teach him.
— George is quick to take offence. = He takes offence quickly.
— This car is easy to drive. = It is easy to drive this car.
— She is hard to deal with. = It is hard to deal with her.
This construction is often used after the comparative and superlative of adjectives and expressions with
too and enough:
— It would be more interesting to go out.
— The Top Club is the easiest to find.
— The piano is too heavy to move.
— I'm not strong enough to lift this box.
— The examination was too terrible to talk about.
d) The to-infinitive is often used after ordinal numerals and the adjective last:
— He was the first to answer.
— She was the last to leave.
For + noun phrase + infinitive

We use for + noun phrase + infinitive after
1. an adjective
It was easy for the player to kick the ball into the empty goal.(= The player easily kicked the ball into
the empty goal.)
2. a noun phrase
It was a mistake for Helen to marry Bob. (= Helen married Bob, which was a mistake.)
3. a verb which usually has for after it, eg wait for
They are still waiting for them to reply. (= They have not replied yet.)
See someone do and see someone doing
Policeman: There's been a robbery here. I want to speak to anybody who saw anything at seven o'clock
this evening.
Mr Jackson: I was here. I saw a car arrive at about six o'clock. The driver waited for an hour. Then I
noticed him signal to somebody in the building. Then there was a loud bang inside the building.
Policeman: Did you hear anybody scream or shout? Did you see anyone come out of the building?
Mr Jackson: I heard someone shout "murderer". Then three men ran out, jumped into the car and drove
off.
a) Study this example situation:
Tom got into his car and drove away. You saw this. You can say:
— I saw Tom get into his car and drive away. In this structure we use the infinitive (get, drive etc.):
Someone did something
I saw this
>

I saw someone do something
Remember that we use the infinitive without to:
— I saw her go out. (not "to go out")
But after apassive ("he was seen" etc.) we use to + infinitive:
— She was seen to go out.
b) Now study this example situation:
Yesterday you saw Ann. She was waiting for a bus. You can say:

— I saw Ann waiting for a bus.
In this structure we use — ing (waiting):
Someone was doing
something
I saw this
I saw someone doing something I
с) Now study the difference in meaning between the two structures:
" I saw him do something" = he did something (past simple} and I saw this. I saw the complete action
from beginning to end:
— He fell to the ground. I saw this.
Ф I saw him fall to the ground.
— The accident happened. We saw this,-
Ь We saw the accident happen.
"I saw him doing something" = he was doing something (past continuous) and I saw this. I saw him
when he was in the middle of doing something. This does not mean that I saw the complete action:
— He was walking along the street.
I saw this when I drove past in my car.
4J-I saw him walking along the street.
When we use a present participle we emphasize experience of part of an action:
12
— I watched the boats sailing by. = Я наблюдал, как отплывают корабли.
When we want to emphasize experience of the complete action we use an infinitive without to after the
verb of perception:
—-1 watched the boats sail by. = Я видел, как отчалили корабли.
There is usually little difference in meaning between the two forms except that the -ing form usually
gives the idea of "while":
— I've never seen Tom dance.
— I saw my friend run down the street.
— I heard the rain fall on the roof.
I've never seen Tom

dancing.
I saw my friend
running down the street.
I heard the rain falling
on the roof.
d) We use these structures especially with see and hear, and also with watch, listen to, feel and notice:
— I didn't hear you come in. — I could hear it raining.
— She suddenly felt someone — The missing boys were touch her on the shoulder. last seen
playing near
the river.
— Did you notice anyone — Listen to the birds go out? singing!
After smell and find you can use the -ing structure only:
— Can you smell something burning?
— She found him reading her letters.
Would rather
Would rather (do) = would prefer to do. After would rather we use the infinitive without to.
Compare:
Shall we go by train?
Well, I'd prefer to go by
car.
Well, I'd rather go by car.
(not "to go")
—"Would you rather have tea or coffee?" "Coffee, please."
— I'm tired. I'd rather not go out this evening, if you don't mind.
— "Do you want to go out this evening?" "I'd rather not."
Note the structure: / 'd rather do something than (do) something else.
\
— I'd rather stay at home than go to the cinema.
Had better do something
The meaning of had better (I'd better) is similar to should. "I'd better do something" = I should do

something or it is advisable for me to do something; if I don't do this, something bad might happen:
— I have to meet Tom in ten minutes. I'd better go now or I'll be late.
— We've almost run out of petrol. We'd better stop at the next petrol station to fill up.
The negative form is had better not ('d better not):
— You don't look very well. You'd better not go to work today.
The form is always "had better" (usually 'd better in spoken English). We say had but the meaning is
present or future, not past:
— I'd better go to the bank this afternoon.
Remember that had better is followed by the infinitive without to:
— It might rain. We'd better take an umbrella,
Practice Infinitive as subject, complement of subject
I. Transform according to the model.
eg To skate here is pleasant. It is pleasant to skate here.
14
1. To swim on a hot summer day is marvellous. 2. To learn a foreign language is difficult. 3. To rest
there was pleasant. 4. To be given such an opportunity is important. 5. To look after the children was
her duty. 6. To marry him was her ambition. 7. To have spent a month at the seaside was very useful. 6.
To be fishing now is too cold. 9. To have bought such a useless thing was stupid.
10. To be treated rudely is unpleasant.
11. Make sentences with the same meaning by usingit + infinitive.
eg Having good friends is important. It is important to have good friends.
I. Playing tennis is fun. 2. Being polite to other people is important. 3. Learning about other cultures is
interesting. 4. Walking alone at night in this part of the city is dangerous. 5. Is learning a second
language difficult? 6. Is riding a motorcycle easy? 7. Having a cold isn't much fun. 7. Learning a
second language takes a long time. 8. Cooking a soft-boiled egg takes three minutes.
III. Answer the questions.
Student A: Use it + infinitive. Student В: Use gerunds.
1. Which is easier: to make money or to spend money?
A: It is easier to spend money than (it is) to make money. B: Spending money is easier than making
money.

2. Which is more fun: to study at the library or to go to a movie?
3. Which is more difficult: to write English or to read English?
4. Which is easier: to write English or to speak English?
5. Which is more expensive: to go to a movie or to go to a concert?
6. Which is more interesting: to talk to people or to watch people?
7. Which is more comfortable: to wear shoes or to go barefoot?
8. Which is more satisfying: to give gifts or to receive them?
9. Which is more dangerous: to ride in a car or to ride in an airplane?
10. Which is more important: to come to class on time or to get an extra hour of sleep in the morning?
15
IV. Student A: Complete the sentence with an infinitive phrase. Student B: Give a sentence with the
same meaning by using a gerund phrase as the subject.
1. It is fun...
A: It is fun to ride a horse. B: Riding a horse is fun.
2. It's dangerous... 5. It is important... 8. It's a good idea...
3. It's easy... 4. It's impolite...
6. It is wrong... 7. It takes a lot of time.
9. Is it difficult...?
V. Restate the sentences by changing a sentence with a gerund as the subject to a sentence with it +
an infinitive phrase, and vice-versa.
1. Teasing animals is cruel. — It is cruel to tease animals.
2. It wasn't difficult to find their house. — Finding their house wasn't difficult.
3. Voting in every election is important.
4. It was exciting to meet the king and queen.
5. Hearing the other side of the story would be interesting.
6. It is unusual to see Joan awake early in the morning.
7. If you know how, it is easy to float in water for a long time.
8. Mastering a second language takes time and patience.
9. Driving to Atlanta will take us ten hours.
10. It takes courage to dive into the sea from a high cliff.

VI. Match columns A and В to make sentences: eg It's not easy for old people to climb stairs.
It's not easy for old people
It's quite easy for Dutch people
It's not safe in some cities for women
It's dangerous for inexperienced people
It's not difficult for young children
It can be difficult in a big city
16
В
to learn English.
to climb mountains.
to learn languages.
to climb stairs.
to make friends.
to go out alone at night.
VII. Use the given information to complete each sentence. Use for (someone) and an infinitive
phrase in each completion.
1. Students should do their homework. It's important... It is important for students to do their
homework. 2. Teachers should speak clearly. It's important... 3. We don't have to hurry. There's plenty
of time. It isn't necessary... 4. A fish can't live out of water more than a few minutes. It is impossible...
5. Students have to budget their time carefully. It's necessary... 6. A child usually can't sit still for a
long time. It's difficult... 7. My family always eats turkey on Thanksgiving Day. It's traditional... 8.
People can take vacation trips to the moon. Will it be possible... within the next fifty years? 9.1 usually
can't understand Mr Alien. It's hard... He talks too fast. 10.1 can understand our teacher. It's easy... 11.
The guests usually wait until the hostess begins to eat. At a formal dinnerparty it's customary... 12. The
bride usually feeds the groom the first piece of wedding cake. It's traditional...
VIII. Identify exactly who the speaker is talking about using the phrase for (someone). Add for
(someone) to the following sentences 'and any other words to give a more specific meaning.
1. It's important to take advanced math courses. It's important for science students to take advanced
math courses. 2. It isn't easy to speak Spanish. 3. It's important to learn English. 4. It's unusual to be

late. 5. It is essential to get a visa. 6. It is dangerous to play with matches. 7. It's difficult to
communicate. 8. It's quite easy to do this exercise. 9. It's useful to go jogging. 10. It must be interesting
to study at the Linguistic University. 11. It is necessary to be present.
IX. Student A: Complete the sentence with an infinitive phrase. Student B: Give a sentence with
the same meaning by
using a gerund phrase. eg Her ambition is...
A: Her ambition is to become an actress.
B: Her ambition is becoming an actress. 1. My hobby is... 2. Your duty is... 3. His favourite pastime
is...4. The main thing to do is... 5. The first thing to do is...6. Her dream is... 7. The only way out was...
17
Verb + infinitive
I. Robert is talking about the day he bought a second-hand car. Complete Robert's story using the to-
infinitive form of the verbs in the boxes.
buy be not like test-drive
"When I got to the garage, I managed to have a quick look at the car before the salesman came out of
his office. It seemed... in very good condition and was worth about £1000, although the garage was
asking £1400 for it. When the salesman came out, I arranged... the car straight away. The salesman and
I got in and we drove off. I liked the car immediately and decided that I wanted... it, but, of course, I
didn't say this to the salesman. Instead, I pretended... the car very much."
| try
get accept pay |
"When we had finished the test-drive and had pulled up outside the garage, I told the salesman that I
couldn't afford... more than £750. The salesman, of course, refused such a miserable little offer. He told
me that he expected at least £1200 for the car. I tried offering£800, £850, £875, but he wouldn't change
his mind. Then I decided to do something different."
| give be sell accept
"I thanked the salesman politely, said goodbye, got out of the car and started to walk away. It worked!
The salesman got out of the car too and hurried after me. He told me that he wanted... fair and was
prepared ... a reasonable offer for the car. In the end, he agreed... it to me for £ 1100. He even agreed...
me £ 200 for my old car!"

II. Make up short dialogues.
seem/appear/happen/is said/is supposed + infinitive
Mr X has recently come to live in the area, but seems to wish to avoid people. This of course arouses
interest and his neighbours
18
observe him closely. Two of them are talking about him. The first speaker makes confident assertions;
the second is more cautious.
He..
A: He wishes to avoid us.
B: Well, he seems to wish to avoid us.
1. is afraid of someone.
2. suspects everyone.
3. distrusts his neighbours.
4. dislikes children.
5. likes dogs.
6. avoids people.
7. reads a lot.
8. prefers to be alone.
9. thinks he is in danger. 10. lives on pills.
1 1 . eats very little.
12. feeds his dogs well.
13. writes a lot of letters.
14. works at night.
15. has plenty of money.
16. knows several languages.
17. takes a lot of photos.
Two people keep a close eye on Mr Smith, who lives opposite. The road is wide and busy so they do
not see exactly what is happening, but they have a general idea.
A: He doesn't usually watch television. B: Well, he seems to be watching it today. A: He doesn't
usually get letters. B: Well, he seems to be getting some today. He doesn 't usually...

1 . talk to his mother-in-law.
2. help his wife.
3. use the public phone box.
4. try to please his wife.
19
5. play with the children.
6. bring his wife flowers.
7. take photographs. ,
8. do the shopping.
9. carry his wife's parcels.
10. leave the car at home.
11. let his wife drive.
12. quarrel with his neighbours.
13. walk to work.
14. pay cash.
15. collect the children from school.
4>
Two people are visiting a "stately home" built in the eighteenth " century by a famous duke. One asks
questions about the duke, which the other, who has just bought the guide book, does his'best to answer.
A: Was he rich? (very)
(a) B: Yes, he seems to have been very rich.
(b) B: Yes, he appears to have been very rich.
(c) В: Yes, he is said to have been very rich.
(d) B: Yes, he is supposed to have been very rich.
1 . Did he live here? (most of his life) 2. Did he marry? (several times) 3. Did he have children? (a lot
of) 4. Did he build any other houses? (several) 5. Did he own (large) estates? (enormous) 6. Did he
employ a large staff? (huge) 7. Was he a good landlord? (excellent) 8. Did his tenants like him? (very
much) 9. Did he entertain? (lavishly) 10. Did he drink? (heavily) 1 1 . Did he hunt? (when he was a
young man) 12. Did he keep racehorses? (all his life) 1 3 . Did they win races? (quite a lot of) 1 4. Did
he lose money gambling? (a fortune) 15. Did he sell his other houses? (two of them) 16. Did he quarrel

with his neighbours? (some of them) 17. Did he fight duels? (two) 18. Did he kill his opponent? (both
times) 19. Did he leave the country? (after the second duel) 20. Did he die abroad? (in Paris)
The first speaker is very suspicious.
A: You asked him the time. Was it part of a plan?
В: No, I just happened to ask him the time.
A: You were looking out of the window when I passed.
Was this part of a plan? B: No, I just happened to be looking out of the window.
You...
1. were in the phone box when I passed. Were you watching me? 2. looked at your watch. Was that a
signal of some kind? 3. were sitting by the window when I passed. Were you watching me? 4. were
leaning against your gate when I passed. Were you watching me? 5. were waiting for a bus when I
passed. Were you watching me? 6. gave him a lift. Was this part of a plan? 7. were standing in your
doorway when I passed. Were you watching me? 8. travelled on the same train as Peter. Was that part
of a plan? 9. were watering your window-box when I passed. Were you watching me? 10. got out at the
same station as Peter. Was this part of a plan? 11. had your tape recorder with you. Was this part of a
plan? 12. waved at Jack. Was this a signal? 13. sat at the same table as Jack. Was this part of a plan?
14. were wearing dark glasses when I saw you. Was this part of a plan? 15. and Peter exchanged
briefcases. Was this intentional?
III. This time you have to make sentences with seem and appear.
eg Is he waiting for someone? He appears to be waiting
for someone
Has she lost weight? She seems to have lost
weight.
1. Is Tom worried about something? He seems...
2. Does Ann like Jack? She appears...
3. Is that man looking for something? He appears...
4. Has the car broken down. It seems...
5. Have they gone out? They appear...
6. Is Dick looking for his gloves? He seems...
7. Have they been sitting here long? They seem...

IV. Read each sentence. Then make two new sentences in the passive, beginning with the words in
brackets.
20
21
eg People expect that taxes will be reduced soon. (It) (Taxes)
It is expected that taxes will be reduced soon. Taxes are expected to be reduced soon.
1. People say that the monument is over 2000 years old. (It) (The monument)
2. People expect that the president will resign. (It) (The president)
3. People think the fire started at about 8 o'clock. (It) (The fire)
4. Journalists reported that seven people had been injured in the fire.
(It) (Seven people)
5. They say that prices will rise again this month. (It) (Prices)
6. People consider that he is honest and reliable. (It) (He)
7. We suppose that he is an expert in financial matters. (It) (He)
8. People know that this place is famous for its lakes. (It) (This place)
V. Read each sentence. Then make a new sentence with be + supposed to, as in the example.
eg People say that Whitby is a very nice town. Whitby is supposed to be a very nice town.
1. People say that the new film is very exiting.
2. People say that those cars are rather unreliable.
3. People say that he moved to New York last year.
4. People say that the new restaurant is very expensive.
5. People say that the concert was very good.
VI. Sylvia is supposed to be home by eight о 'clock every evening. Which of the following things are you
(not) supposed to do? Say your answers.
eg I am supposed to tell my parents the truth.
eg I am not supposed to park my bicycle in the living-room.
22
tell your parents the truth
park your bicycle in the living-room
help at home sometimes

tell your parents where you are going every time you go out
be punctual for meals
sit at table in silence during meals
stay out all night without permission
stay in bed until lunchtime at weekends
wear dirty shoes inside the house
play loud music late at night
go everywhere with your parents
VII. Make up short dialogues.
would like + perfect infinitive, wanted+ present infinitive
A: Did you see the castle?
(a) B: No, I would like to have seen it* but there wasn't time.
(b) B: No, I wanted to see it but there wasn't time.
* Note: Would have liked to see it and would have liked to have seen it are also possible forms. Did
you...
1. ring Peter?
2. talk to the students?
3. attend the conference?
4. try the beer?
5. watch the match?
6. visit the museum?
7. see the zoo?
8. walk round the town?
9. meet your friends?
10. look at the old bridge?
11. climb to the top of the monument?
12. have coffee? (Answer with some.)
13. make a sketch? (Answer with one.)
14. take any photographs? (some)
15. hire a boat? (one)

16. send any postcards? (some)
23
17. buy any souvenirs? (some)
18. listen to the town band?
19. paint any pictures? (some)
remember/forget + infinitive
Ann's bad memory saves her a lot of trouble.
(a) A: I locked the safe. Ann had forgotten. B: Oh, Ann never remembers to lock it.
or B: Oh, Ann always forgets to lock it.
(b) A: I took down the old notices. Ann had forgotten. B: Oh, Ann never remembers to take them
down.
or
B: Oh, Ann always forgets to take them down. (Notice word order.)
I... Ann had forgotten.
1. turned out the lights. (See (b) above.)
2. switched off the TV. (See (b) above.)
3. shut the lift doors.
4. paid the milkman.
5. took the milk in. (See (b) above.)
6. washed the coffee cups.
7. made coffee.
8. swept the floor.
9. dusted the desks.
10. put up the new notices. (See (b) above.)
11. watered the pot plants.
12. thanked the office cleaners.
13. put out the rubbish. (See (b) above.)
14. stamped the letters.
15. bought the biscuits.
16. covered the typewriters.

17. locked the office.
Verb + question word + infinitive
Complete the sentences using the most suitable words in the box.
what/do how/get
how/make whether/stay
what/wear how/spell
eg Could you tell me how to get to Western Road, please?" "Yes. Go down this road and it's second on
the left."
1. "Have you decided... to the interview?" "Yes, I'm going to wear my new blue suit." 2. Could you tell
me... you name please? 3. "What are you going to do this evening?" "I can't decide... at home or go
out." 4. Do you know... a Spanish omelette? 5. 1 felt very embarrassed when she started shouting. I
didn't know..., so I just stood there.
Verb + object + infinitive
I. Complete these sentences using an object + to-infinitive after the verbs.
1. Take out a loan. My bank manager advised me to take out a loan. 2. She didn't peel the potatoes.
You didn't tell... 3. We work hard. Our teacher taught... 4. The soldiers fired. The officer ordered... 5.
The public should not approach this man. The police have warned... 6. My wife and I play tennis. My
boss invited... 7. You may take my car. He allowed... 8. At first I didn't want to play but Jack persuaded
me. Jack persuaded... 9. You should tell the police about the accident. She advised... 10. Could you
please post this letter? She asked... 11. Don't forget to buy some sugar. She reminded...
II. Make up short dialogues.
make + object + infinitive without to
(a) A: He told Ann, I hope. (b) He put on his gloves,
I hope. B: Yes, I made him tell her. Yes, I made him put
25
(а) Не... I hope.
1. apologized
2. explained
3. paid the bill
4. wrote to the Smiths

5. cleaned the bath
6. took the medicine
7. reported the accident
8. waited for Ann
9. rang his parents
10. finished the book
11. answered the letter
12. made his bed
13. cleaned his shoes
14. wore his best suit
15. insured his house
16. did his exercises
them on.
(b) He... I hope.
1. hung up his coat
2. turned down the radio
3. shaved off his beard
4. took back the books
5. rang up Jane
6. took down the notice
7. rolled up the carpet
8. locked up the papers
9. threw away his old boots
10. filled up the form
11. looked up the time of the train
12. switched off the central heating
13. paid back the money
14. put away his tools
15. put on his raincoat
16. took off his coat

let + object + infinitive without to, to be allowed + to-infinitive
The Smiths and their two boys and the Browns and their two girls went to the same holiday resort but
at different times. Afterwards the boys and the girls compare their holidays. The boys had a much more
interesting time! The boys speak first.
(a) Active: A: We went rock climbing.
B: Our parents didn't let us go rock-climbing.
(b) Passive: A: We ran about without shoes.
B: We weren't allowed to run about without shoes, (stress on we and allowed)
We...
1. ran about without shoes.
2. slept in the garden.
3. practised parachuting.
4. played water polo.
26
5. sailed round the island.
6. water skied.
7. had bicycle races on the sand.
8. canoed down the river.
9. climbed the cliffs.
10. went surfing.
11. rode Peter's pony.
12. explored the caves.
13. learnt how to dive.
would prefer + object + infinitive
A: Shall I phone Tom tomorrow? B: I'd prefer you to phone him today.
Shall I... tomorrow'''
1. phone Bill
2. bring my friends
3. speak to James
4. sweep the stairs

5. begin
6. pay the milk bill
7. come
8. leave
9. go to the library
10. read the instructions
11. take the books back
12. burn the rubbish
13. get the new programme
14. write to the Smiths
15. buy your season ticket
16. make the arrangements
would like/want + object + infinitive
a) A: Would you like to make a speech
9
B: No, I'd like you to make a speech, (stress on you) (b) A: Do you want to make speech?
B: No, I want you to make a speech, (stress on you)
27
(a) Would you like to... (b) Do you want to...
1. lead the deputation?
2. pick the team*?
3. receive the mayor
1
?
4. speak first?
5. introduce the speakers
6. sign the cheque
7. witness Tom's signature?
8. engage the extra staff?
9. attend the conference?

10. give a talk?
11. meet the president?
12. make the arrangements?
13. answer the queries?
14. choose the colours?
15. fix a date?
16. organize the reception?
17. open the champagne?
doesn 't/didn 't want + object + infinitive
Ann is a young married woman with a lot of time on her hands. Two of her friends think that she
would be happier if she had an occupation or hobby. Unfortunately her husband doesn't seem to share
their views.
(a) A: Have you suggested going to evening classes?
B: Yes, but apparently her husband doesn't want her to go to evening classes, (stress on want)
or
A: Did you suggest going to evening classes? B: Yes, but apparently her husband didn't want her to go
to evening classes. Have you suggested.... Did you suggest....
1. painting?
2. riding?
3. working in the garden?
4. taking a driving test?
5. making friends with her neighbours?
28
6. inviting her mother to stay?
7. getting a part-time job? ' '
8. hiring a typewriter?
9. joining a drama club?
10. acting in a play?
11. singing in the choir?
12. buying a dog?

13. helping at the old people's club?
14. studying Russian?
15. learning judo?
16. attending keep-fit classes?
17. going to art lectures?
18. taking a course in vegetarian cooking?
19. redecorating the house?
20. training as a tourist guide?
III. Paraphrase these sentences using a to-infinitive instead of that
eg People know that he is an honest man. People know him to be an honest man.
1. I believe that she is guilty. 2. I found that the job was too difficult. 3.1 know that she has an interest
in the company. 4.1 imagine that he works very hard. 5. The teacher considered that my answer was
inadequate. 6.1 felt that it was true. 7.1 suppose that the matter is urgent. 8.1 think he is a bore.
Infinitive of purpose
I. Where did you go yesterday, and why did you go to each place?
1. Chemist's
2. Post Office
3. Cinema
4. Hairdresser's
5. Car Rental Agency
6. Park
Make sentences using "I went to the (place) to... " and the words in the box.
eg I went to the chemist's to buy some medicine.
29
hire
buy
have
play
post
see

a haircut
tennis
a film
some letters
a car
some medicine
II. Join each idea in A with an idea from B. Make sentences using (i) in order (not) to, and (ii) so as (not)
to.
eg (i) He drank lots of black coffee in order to keep awake, (ii) He drank lots of black coffee so as to
keep awake.
A
1. He drank lots of black coffee
2.1 often write things down
3. She took an umbrella
4. We'll use the computer 5.1 want to pass the exams 6. We turned down the music
В
disturb the neighbours
save time
get a better job
forget them
keep awake
get wet
III. Join the sentences with in order to, or so (that).
I. I'll give you my telephone number. You can phone me at work. 2. Take some suntan cream. Then
you won't get sunburnt. 3. I'm going to the post office. I want to post a parcel. 4. We are organizing a
"Fun Run". We want to raise money for the local hospital. 5. They took the phone off the hook.
Nobody could phone them. 6. Speak louder. Then Granny can hear you. 7. Turn the sound down. I
don't want you to disturb the neighbours. 8. We are installing solar (солнечный) heating. We want to
save energy.
IV. In pairs, think of five good reasons why you are learning English.

Noun/pronoun + infinitive
I. Paraphrase the following so as to use the infinitive.
eg He gave me a passage which I was to look through. He gave me a passage to look through.
30
1. There are still a lot of things which must be packed. 2. There are so many letters that must be
answered. 3. I have no money which I can spend. 4. There is nothing which we might record now. 5.
There is nothing you should worry about. 6. Here is a list of medicines which are to be sold without a
prescription. 7. He is not the man you can rely on. 8. A good housewife will always find something that
must be done about the house. 9. He is not the man who can be easily impressed. 10. The next patient
who was examined was my brother. 11. There was nothing that might keep him at home that night, and
he gladly accepted the invitation. 12. She had no one who could take care of her. 13. We've got no time
that we can lose.
II. Respond using what a/an + adjective + noun + infinitive.
A: He lives in a cave, (funny place) B: What a funny place to live!
He...
1. parked outside the police station, (silly place)
2. travels by donkey, (slow way)
3. said, "mind your own business." (rude thing)
4. sleeps in his car. (uncomfortable place)
5. makes money by telling fortunes, (interesting way)
6. swims at night, (odd time)
7. plays golf on his flat roof, (strange place)
8. makes all his important decisions in the lift, (extraordinary place)
9. lives on brown rice, (odd thing) (Keep on)
10. cooks in his bathroom, (queer place)
11. rings up his friends at 6 a.m. (inconvenient time)
12. relaxes by standing on his head, (odd way)
13. reads the telephone directory, (strange thing)
14. gets up at 4 a.m. (unpleasant time)
15. has a holiday in June, (agreeable time)

16. drives a Rolls Royce. (expensive car)
III. Paraphrase the following using a noun instead of the verb in bold type with the infinitive as attribute,
make all other necessary changes.
31
eg He offered to help us but we refused. — We refused his offer to help us.
I don't want to change my mind. — I have no desire to change my mind.
1.1 was surprised that he refused to go there. 2. We did not know that they planned to leave soon. 3.
They demand to be regularly informed, and you will have to comply with it. 4. I remember you
promised not to talk of it. 5.1 told him that I was firmly determined to find out the truth. 6. He was
permitted to leave. 7.1 don't intend to do anything about it. 8, They repeatedly attempted to stage the
experiment. 9. He did not wish to let you down. 10. The trainer instructed the cyclists to examine their
bicycles before the competition. 11. He consented to fill up the vacancy.
Adjective + infinitive
be + horrified/glad/surprised/amazed/ relieved etc. + infinitive
I. Paraphrase using the infinitive.
eg A: I saw smoke coming under the door, (horrified) B: I was horrified to see smoke coming under the
door. 1.1 heard cries of pain coming from the next room, (horrified) 2.1 saw a photograph of myself on
the front page, (astonished) 3.1 found a complete stranger taking food out of my fridge.
(annoyed)
4.1 saw that the beds had been made, (glad) 5.1 received an invitation to the palace, (delighted) 6.1 found
that no preparations had been made, (surprised) 7.1 heard that the last train had just left, (dismayed) 8.1
found everyone still in bed at eleven o'clock, (shocked) 9.1 found the last bus still standing there,
(relieved) 10.1 heard that you can't come skiing after all. (disappointed) 11.1 learnt that no room had been
reserved for me. (annoyed) 12. 1 saw that most of the town had been destroyed by the
explosion, (shocked)
32
13. I heard that the plane had crashed, (horrified)
14.1 heard that my brother was safe, (relieved)
15.1 found that I could make myself understood, (pleased)
16.1 saw that I had passed the exam, (glad)

17.1 found my name at the very bottom of the list, (sorry)
181 heard that I could have every weekend off. (delighted)
it is/was + adjective + of+ object + infinitive
II. Respond to the following statements.
A: He warned me. (kind)
B: It was kind of him to warn you.
1. They waited for me. (good) 2. He lent Ann his bicycle, (kind) 3. She believed him. (stupid) 4. They
invited me. (nice) 5. She told the police, (sensible) 6.1 found the way. (clever) (Use you) 7. She left her
car unlocked, (careless) 8. He had another drink, (foolish) 9. She argued with the customs officer, (stupid)
10. He refused to share his sandwiches, (selfish) 11. They ran away, (cowardly) 12. He kept the money,
(dishonest) 13. He took the only cream cake, (greedy) 14. She jumped into the river to save the child,
(brave) 15. He offered to pay. (generous) 16. He said I wasn't any use. (unkind) 17. He told lies about me.
(wicked) 18. He admitted he was wrong, (courageous)
too + adjective + infinitive, adjective + enough + infinitive
III. Respond to the following statements.
A: You sat on the grass, I suppose? (wet/dry) (a)B: No, it was too wet to sit on.
or
No, it was too wet for us to sit on. b) B: Yes, it was dry enough to sit on.
Yes, it was dry enough for us to sit on.
... I suppose?
1. You slept in the cave, (wet/dry) 2. He walked on the ice, (thin/ thick) 3. You ate the apple, (sour/sweet)
4. He wore his
33
blue suit, (shabby/smart) 5. The plane landed on the sand, (soft/ hard) 6. You drank the coffee, (hot/cool)
7. He picked the fruit, (unripe/ripe) 8. You took out the (electric light) bulb, (hot/cool) 9. She read by the
light of the moon, (dim/bright) 10. You used yesterday's milk, (sour/fresh) 11. He dived from the pier,
(high/ low) 12. She handed in her exercise, (untidy/tidy) 13. You swam in the river, (polluted/clean). 14.
He stood on the table, (unsteady/ steady) 15. You put your umbrella in your suitcase, (long/short) 16. He
put the trunk in the boot of the car, (big/small) 17. She dived into the pond, (shallow/deep) 18. You sat on
the floor, (dirty/ clean) 19. He picked up the sack of potatoes, (heavy/light)

This book is hard to get
IV. Agree or disagree with the following.
eg — John is a bad-tempered man. (deal with)
— I don't agree with you. He is very pleasant to deal with. eg — This is a very rare stamp.
— Quite so. It is so hard to get.
1. The novel is boring, (read) 2. She is a charming little creature, (look at) 3. He is a shallow man. (deal
with) 4. She is good at dancing, I must say. (dance with) 5. My friend looks altogether a new girl after the
trip, (recognize) 6. Jane is a very clever girl, (talk to) 7. The passage is too long, (learn by heart) 8. She is
a good-natured girl, (please) 9. The bicycle is broken, (repair)
find it easy + infinitive
V. Make up short dialogues using the prompts, (i) Prompt: open the windows
(a) A: Do you have difficulty (in) opening the windows?
(b) B: No, I find it quite easy to open them.
(c) B: No, I find them quite easy to open.
Note: I find it easy to open them implies that the speaker has the necessary skill. I find them easy to open
implies that it is easy to open them.
The hall porter of a block of flats is answering questions
34
1. regulate the central heating
2. organize the cleaning
3. control the cleaning staff
4. remember the tenants' names
5. answer telephone enquiries
6. deal with complaints
7. understand foreign tenants
8. operate the switchboard
9. read the meters
10. get on with the tenants
He was the first to come
VI. Paraphrase the following so as to use the infinitive.

eg He was the first who came. He was the first to come.
1. Kate was the last who saw him. 2. He was the first who broke the silence. 3. He was the first who
answered at the examination. 4.1 wonder who left the office last. 5.1 wonder who spoke at the meeting
first. 6. You will answer next. 7. She was the first who praised him. 8. He complained that he was always
the last who was informed. 9. He found that he was the only one who realized the danger. 10. Andrew
was the third who went in for the interview. 11. The first person who entered was Mrs Evans. 12. If there
is a vacancy I would like to be the one who will be offered the job.
VII. Make up sentences usinglikely, certain and sure + infinitive.
eg He is likely to arrive before dawn, eg He is sure to marry her. eg She is certain to get a scholarship, eg
He is not likely to come.
see + object + -ing, or see + object + infinitive without to
Make up short dialogues.
A: (with a note of doubt in his/her voice) Did he pay the bill?
(a) B: Well, I didn't actually see him paying it.
(b) B: Well, I didn't actually see him pay it.
35
Did he...
1. sign the cheque?
2. lock the door?
3. take the key?
4. read the instructions?
5. use the photocopier?
6. weigh the parcel?
7. post the letter?
8. burn the photographs?
9. copy the documents?
10. swallow the tablet?
11. drink the coffee?
12. cut the telephone cable?
13. open the safe?

14. take the money?
hear + object + -ing, or hear + object + infinitive without to
A: Are you sure Tom left?
(a) B: Yes, I heard him leaving.
(b) B: Yes, I heard him leave.
Are you sure...
1. Tom booked the tickets?
2. Jack invited Mrs Jones?
3. Mrs Jones accepted the invitation?
4. Mary told her husband?
5. the lift door shut?
6. Peter wound the clock?
7. the bell rang?
8. they accused Bill?
9. the bus stopped?
10. the ice cracked?
11. George spoke to Mary?
12. the passengers shouted at the driver?
13. the driver apologized?
14. Ann asked for the keys?
15. Peter complained about the delay?
36
16. the students laughed?
17. they opened the champagne?
Would rather
I. Answer these questions usingl'd prefer... or I'd rather... Use
the words in brackets for your answers.
eg Shall we walk? (prefer/go by car) — I'd prefer to go by car. Shall we eat now (rather/eat a bit later)
— I'd rather eat a bit later.
1. Shall we play tennis? (prefer/go for a swim)

2. Shall we watch television (rather/read a book)
3. Shall we leave now? (rather/wait for a few minutes)
4. Shall we go to a restaurant? (prefer/eat at home)
5. Shall we decide now? (rather/think about it for a while)
П. Now you have to make sentences using I'd prefer... rather than... or I'd rather... than...
eg (walk/go by car) I'd rather walk than go by car.
(stay at home/go to the cinema) I'd prefer to stay at home rather than go to the cinema
1. (go for a swim/play tennis) I'd rather...
2. (read a book/watch television) I'd prefer...
3. (wait for a few minutes/leave now) I'd prefer...
4. (eat at home/go to a restaurant) I'd rather...
5. (think about it for a while/decide now) I'd prefer...
Had better
Read each sentence and make up a sentence with had better. eg You're going out for a walk with
Tom. You think you should take an umbrella because it might rain. What do you say to Tom?
We'd better take an umbrella.
eg Tom doesn't look very well. You don't think he should go to work today. What do you say to Tom?
You'd better not go to work today.
37
1. Ann suddenly begins to feel ill. You think she should sit down. What do you say to her?
2. You and Tom are going to the theatre. You've just missed the bus. You think you should take a taxi.
What do you say to Tom? We...
3. Ann wants to play the piano late at night. You know that she'll wake up the people next door. What do
you say to Ann?
4. You and Ann are going to a restaurant for a meal. You think you should reserve a table because the
restaurant might be crowded. What do you say to Ann?
5. Tom has just cut himself. You think he should put a plaster on the cut. What do you say to him?
6. You are by a river. It's a very warm day and your friend suggests going for a swim. You don't think
you should do this because the river looks very dirty. What do you say?
Uncompleted infinitives

(a) I've never met Rita but I'd like to.
In (a): I'd like to — an uncompleted infinitive;
I'd like to meet Rita — the understood completion.
Complete the sentences with the words in brackets. Use any appropriate tense, discuss the understood
meaning of the uncompleted infinitives.
1. A: Why didn't you go to the concert?
B: I (want, not) I didn't want to.
2.1 haven't written to my parents yet this week, but I (intend). 3. Did Jane enjoy the play? — She (seem).
4. I'd like to buy fresh flowers for my desk every day, but I can't (afford). 5. I've never eaten at that
restaurant, but I (would like). 6. Want to go to the jazz festival with us tomorrow night? — I (would
love). 7. Are you going to the historical society meeting? — Yes, I (plan). And you? 8. Oh!
I'm sorry I closed the door in your face! I (mean, not). 9.1 don't play with toys any more but I (use). 9.
Have you called Jennifer yet? — That's the fourth time you've asked me. I (be going)! I (be going)! Don't
be a nag! 10. Tina doesn't feel like going to the meeting, but she (have) 11. Are you planning to go to the
market?— No, but I suppose I (ought). 12. Why didn't you pay the bill for him? — I (offer) but he
refused. 13. Why didn't you hit him? — I (be afraid). 14. Why doesn't he try again? — He (want, not).
Various infinitive constructions
Replace the group of words in italics by an infinitive or an infinitive construction.
It is important that he should understand this. It is important for him to understand this.
He was the first man who arrived. He was the first man to arrive.
1. The captain was the last man who left the ship. 2. He got to the top and was very disappointed when he
found that someone else had reached it first. 3. There are a lot of sheets that need mending. 4. I was
astonished when I heard that he had left the country. 5. It is better that he should hear it from you. 6. / was
rude to him, which was stupid. (It was stupid...) 7. If he had another child with whom he could play he
would be happier. 8. It is necessary that everyone should know the truth. 9. There was no place where we
could sit. 10. He put his hand into his pocket and was astonished when he found that his wallet wasn't
there. 11. He rushed into the burning house, which was very brave of him. (It was very brave...) 12.1 can't
go to the party; I have nothing that I can wear. 13. Л is expected that he will broadcast a statement tonight.
(He is expected...) 14.1 want a kitchen where (=in which) I can cook. 15. He reached the station exhausted
and was very disappointed when he learnt that the train had just left. 16. Haven't you anything with which

you could open if. 17. It seems that the crime was committed by a left-handed man. (The crime seems...
Use perfect infinitive passive.) 18. Is it likely that he will arrive before six? (Is he...) 19. It is said thathe
was a brilliant scientist. (He is said...) 20. It is advisable that we should leave the house
38
39
separately. 21. You signed the document without reading it, which was very stupid. (It was stupid...) 22. It
is said that she has a frightful temper. (She..) 23. He was the first man who swam the Channel. 24. They
believe that he is honest. (He...) 25.It appears that he was killed with a blunt instrument. (He appears...
Use passive infinitive.) 26. He was the only one who realized the danger. 27. It is said that the earth was
originally part of the sun. (The earth...) 28. It is said that he is hiding in the woods near your house. 29. It
is said that this palace was built in three years. This palace is said... 30. They expect thathe will arrive on
Tuesday. (He...). 31.1 knew that he was a boring man. (I knew...)
Self check
I. Insert to where necessary before the infinitive in brackets.
1. He made me (do) it all over again. 2. He will be able (swim) very soon. 3. You ought (go) today. It may
(rain) tomorrow. 4. He made her (repeat) the message. 5. They won't let us (leave) the Customs shed till
our luggage has been examined. 6. I used (smoke) forty cigarettes a day. 7. Will you help me (move) the
bookcase? 8. He is expected (arrive) in a few days. 9. Please let me (know) your decision as soon as
possible. 10. He made me (wait) for hours. 11. I'd like him (go) to a university but I can't (make) him
(go). 12. You seem (know) this area very well. — Yes, I used (live) here. 13. The kidnappers told the
parents (not inform) the police, and the parents didn't dare (disobey). 14. I'm sorry (disappoint) you but I
can't (let) you (have) any more money till the end of the month. 15. It is easy (be) wise after the event. 16.
Do you (wish) (make) a complaint? 17. We don't (want) anybody (know) that we are here. 18. If you can't
(remember) his number you' d better (look) it up. 19.1 want her (learn) Esperanto; I think everybody
ought (know) it. 20. He is said (be) the best surgeon in the country. 21. Visitors are asked (not feed) the
animals. 22. He should know how (use) the film projector, but if he doesn't you had better (show) him.
23. He was made (sign) a paper admitting his guilt. 24.1 heard the door (open) and saw a shadow (move)
across the floor. 25. He tried (make) me (believe) that he was my stepbrother. 26. As we seem (have
missed) the train we may as well (go) back to the house. 27.1 felt the house
(shake) with the explosion. 28. Before he let us (go) he made us (promise) (not tell) anyone what we had

seen. 29. Would you (like) (come) in my car? — No, thanks, I'd rather (walk). 30. I advised him (ask) the
bus conductor (tell) him where (get) off. 31. It is better (put) your money in a bank than (keep) it under
your bed in an old stocking. 32. Did you remember (give) him the money? — No, I didn't, I still have it in
my pocket; but I'll (see) him tonight and I promise (not forget) this time. 33.1 saw the driver (open) his
window and (throw) a box into the bushes.
34. That is too heavy for one person (carry); let me (help) you.
35. The children were made (obey). 36. She was seen (cross) the street and (turn) round the corner. 37.1
didn't expect her (marry) him. 38. They were supposed (know) German well.
II. Choose the correct answer.
1. Are you sure you told me? I don't recall... about it.
A. having told C. to have told
B. having being told D. to have been told.
2. Dan appears... some weight. Has he been ill?
A. having lost C. to have lost
B. having been lost D. to have been lost
3. Tom made a mistake at work, but his boss didn't fire him. He's lucky... a second chance.
A. having given B. having been given
C. to have given D. to have been given
4. Dr Wilson is a brilliant dedicated scientist who had expected to be selected as the director of the
institute. She was very surprised not... the position.
A. having offered C. to have offered
B. having been offered D. to have been offered
5. By the time their baby arrives, the Johnsons hope... painting and decorating the new nursery.
A. having finished C. to have finished
B. having been finished D. to have been finished
40
41
6. We would like... to the president's reception, but we weren't.
A. having invited C. to have invited
B. having been invited D. to have been invited

7. The stockbroker denied... of the secret business deal.
A. having informed C. to have informed
B. having been informed D. to have been informed
8. George mentioned... in an accident as a child, but he never told us the details.
A. having injured C. to have injured
B. having been injured D. to have been injured
9. The Smiths wanted to give their son every advantage. However, they now regret... him by providing
too many material possessions.
A. having spoiled B. having been spoiled
C. to have spoiled D. to have been spoiled
10. The spy admitted... some highly secret information to enemy agents.
A. having given C. to have given
B. having been given D. to have been given
11. We were shocked to hear the news of your...
A. having fired C. to be fired
B. having been fired D. to have been fired
12. Marge's children are used to... after school every day. They don't have to walk home.
A. picking up C. be picked up
B. being picked up D. pick up
13. The bus driver was so tired of... the same route every day that he asked for a transfer.
A. to drive B. being driven
С. driving D. drive
14. I'm sure it's not my fault that Peter found out what we were planning. I don't remember... anyone
about it.
42
A. having told C. to tell
B. being told D. to be told
15. Even though she was much younger than the other children, Alexis demanded... in the game they
were playing.
A. including C. to include

B. being included D. to be included
16. The baby continued... even after she was picked up.
A. being crying B. having cried
C. to cry D. having been crying
III. Put the verbs in brackets into gerund or infinitive.
1.1 used (ride) a lot but I haven't had a chance (do) any since (come) here. — I ride sometimes. Would
you like (come) with me next time? 2. Most people prefer (spend) money to (earn) it. 3.1 resented (be)
unjustly accused and asked him (apologize). 4. It isn't good for children (eat) too many sweets. 5.1
didn't feel like (work) so I suggested (spend) the day in the garden. 6. Why do you keep (look) back?
Are you afraid of (be) followed? 7. Do you remember (post) the letter? — Yes, I do; I posted it in the
letter-box near my gate. 8. Did you remember (lock) the door? — No, I didn't. I'd better (go) back and
(do) it now. 9. You still have a lot (learn) if you'll forgive my'(say) so. 10. It's no use (try) (interrupt)
him. You'll have (wait) till he stops (talk). 11. I'm for (do) nothing till the police arrive. They don't like
you (move) anything when a crime has been committed. 12. He didn't like (leave) the children alone in
the house but he had no alternative as he had (go) out to work. 13. I'm very sorry for (be) late. It was
good of you (wait) for me. 14. I keep (try) (make) mayonnaise but I never succeed. — Try (add) the
yolk of a hard-boiled egg. 15. Do you feel like (go) to a film or would you rather (stay) at home? 16.
He took to (get up) early and (walk) noisily about the house. 17.1 liked (listen) to folk music much
better than (listen) to pop. 18. The car began (make) an extraordinary noise so I stopped (see) what it
was. 19. You'll never regret (do) a kind action. 20. He decided (put) broken glass on top of his wall
(prevent) boys (climb) over it. 21. He annoyed me very much by (take) the piece of cake that I was
keeping (eat) after my supper.
43
22. He kept (ring) up and (ask) for an explanation and she didn't know what (do) about him. 23. We got
tired of (wait) for the weather (clear) and finally decided (set) out in the rain. 24. He made me (repeat)
his instructions (make) sure that I understood what I was (do) after he had gone. 25. I suggest (leave)
the car here and (send) a breakdown van (tow) it to the garage. 26. She apologized for (borrow) my
sewing-machine without (ask) permission and promised never (do) it again. 27. I didn't mean (offend)
anyone but somehow I succeeded in (annoy) them all. 28. He never thinks of (get) out of your way; he
expects you (walk) round him. 29. You don't need (ask) his permission every time you want (leave) the

room. 30. The police accused him of (set) fire to the building but he denied (have been) in the area on
the night of the fire. 31. It's much better (go) to a hairdresser than (try) (save) time by (cut) your own
hair. 32. I'd rather (earn) my living by (scrub) floors than (make) money by (blackmail) people. 33.1
always remember (turn) off all the lights before I leave my house. 34. I'll never forget (carry) my wife
over the threshold when we moved into our first house. 35.1 regret (listen, not) to my father's advice.
He was right. 36. We went for a walk after we finished (clean) up the kitchen. 37. Sometimes students
avoid (look) at the teacher if they don't want (answer) a question. 38. The club members discussed
(postpone) the next meeting until March. 39. Did Carol agree (go) (camp) with you? 40. The taxi driver
refuse (take) a check. He wanted the passenger (pay) in cash. 41. The soldiers were ordered (stand) at
attention. 42. The travel agent advised us (wait, not) until August. 43.1 don't mind (wait) for you. Go
ahead and finish (do) your work. 44. Keep (talk), I'm listening to you. 45. The children promised (play)
more quietly. They promised (make, not) so much noise. 46. Linda offered (look after) my cat while I
was out of town. 47. You shouldn't put off (pay) your bills. 48. The doctor ordered Mr Gray (smoke,
not). 49. Don't tell me his secret. I prefer (know, not). 50. Could you please stop (whistle)? I'm trying
(concentrate) on my work. 51. Did you remember (turn off) the stove? 52. Jack was allowed (renew)
his student visa. 53. Pat told us (wait, not) for her. 54. Mr Buck warned his daughter (play, not) with
matches. 55. Would you please remind me (call) Alice tomorrow'? 56. I'm considering (drop) out of
school, (hitchhike) to New York, and (try) (find) a job. 57. Sally reminded me (ask) you (tell) Bob
(remember) (bring)
44
his soccer ball to the picnic. 58. Alex broke the antique vase. I'm sure he didn't mean (do) it. 59. Mrs
Freeman can't help (worry) about her children. 60.1 appreciate your (take) the time to help me. 61.1
can't afford (buy) a new car. 62. Julie finally admitted (be) responsible for the problem. 63. She keeps
(promise) (visit) us, but she never does. 64.1 don't enjoy (laugh) at by other people. 65. I'm angry at
him for (tell, not) me the truth. 66. It is easy (fool) by his lies. 67. Sharon wants us (tell) her the news
as soon as we hear anything. If we find out anything about the problem, she wants (tell) about it
immediately. 68. You must tell me the truth. I insist on (tell) the truth. 69. Martha doesn't like to have
her picture taken. She avoids (photograph). 70. It's been nice talking to you. I really have enjoyed our
conversation, but I have to leave now. I'm very happy (have) this opportunity to meet you and talk with
you. 71. This letter needs (send) immediately. 72.1 thought Sam was sick. — So did I. But he seems

(recover) very quickly. He certainly doesn't seem (be) sick now. 73. Last year I studied abroad. I
appreciate (have) the opportunity to live and study in a foreign country. 74. This year I am studying
abroad. I appreciate (have) this opportunity to live and study in a foreign country. 75. Mrs Jackson
complained about (tell, not) about the meeting. In the future, she expects (inform) of any and all
meetings. 76. The dog needs (wash). He's been digging in the mud. 77. Alice didn't expect (ask) to
Bill's party. 78. Matthew left without (tell) anyone. 79. It's useless. Give up. Enough's enough. Don't
keep (beat) your head against a brick wall. 80. His (be, not) able to come is disappointing. 81. I hope
(award) a scholarship for the coming semester. 82. We are very pleased (accept) your invitation. 83. It
is exciting (travel) to faraway places and (leave) one's daily routine behind. 84. He wants (like) and
(trust) by everyone. 85. I can't help (wonder) why Larry did such a foolish thing. 86. She admitted
(drive) too fast through the town. 87. Mr Carson is very lucky (choose) by the committee as their
representative to the meeting in Paris. 88. (Live) in a city has certain advantages. 89. It is very kind of
you (take) care of that problem for me. 90. She opened the window (let) in some fresh air. 91.1 don't
remember ever (hear) this story before. 92. You should stop (drive) if you get sleepy. It's dangerous
(drive) when you're not alert. 93. After driving for three hours, ^e stopped (get) something to eat. 94.
Please forgive me for
45
(be, not) here to help you yesterday. 95. Polly was in the garden, so she didn't hear the phone (ring) 96.
The guard observed a suspicious-looking man (come) into the bank. 97.1 was almost asleep last night
when I suddenly heard someone (knock) on the door. 98. I remember it distinctly. At 5:30 yesterday
afternoon, I saw Jim (walk) to his car, (open) the door, and (get in). 99. I got Mary (lend) me some
money so I could go to a movie last night. 100. The teacher had the class (write) a 2000-word research
paper. 101. Susie pretended (be) asleep. She pretended (hear, not) me when I spoke to her. 102. You
seem (be) in a good mood today. 103. Janice is thinking about (look) for a new job. 104. Dick appears
(have) a lot of money. 105. My father expects me (get) high marks in school. 106. According to the
sign on the restaurant door, all diners are required (wear) shirts and shoes. 107.1 appreciate your (pay)
for my dinner. I'll pay next time. 108. Children shouldn't be allowed (watch) violent programs on TV.
109. The sign warns you (turn, not) right on a red light. 110. After hearing the weather report, I advise
you (go, not) skiing this afternoon. 111. Janice misses (take) walks with her father in the evening now
that she has moved away from home.

IV. Translate from Russian into English.
Infinitive as subject, complement of subject
1. Полезно заниматься гимнастикой ежедневно. 2. Трудно изучать иностранный язык. 3.
Приятно купаться и загорать в такой прекрасный день. 4. Интересно встречаться с новыми
людьми. 5. Не предупредить его об этом было бы нечестно. 6. Нам необходимо увидеть его
сегодня. 7. Мне трудно понять его. 8. Ребенку трудно сидеть спокойно длительное время. 9.
Невежливо — прерывать говорящего. 10. Нам было трудно получить эти сведения. 11. Здесь
опасно купаться. 12. Ему необходимо было немедленно вернуться. 13. Важно иметь хороших
друзей. 14. Вам понадобится двадцать минут, чтобы добраться до вокзала. 15. Что труднее:
читать по-английски или писать по-английски? 16. Играть в теннис интересно. 17. Студентам
важно выполнять домашнее задание. 16. Интересно узнать об иной культуре. 19. Легко
научиться во-
46
дить машину? 20. Ходить одному ночью в этой части города опасно. 21. Нам трудно сделать
эту работу в такой короткий срок. 22. Ей трудно взбираться по этим ступенькам. 23. Сколько
тебе надо времени, чтобы закончить эксперимент? 24. Наш план заключался в том, чтобы
спасти детей. 25. Моя цель — стать хорошим учителем. 26. Наш долг — помогать нашим
старым родителям. 27. Мой совет тебе — не тратить так много времени на спорт. 28. Первое,
что надо сделать, — это посоветоваться с врачом. 29. Уже поздно посылать письмо. Един-
ственное, что нам остается сделать, — это послать телеграмму. 30. Мое желание — выиграть
матч. 31. Его план — научиться плавать. 32. Единственная возможность увидеть его — это
сходить в библиотеку. Он там бывает почти каждый день. 33. Лучшее, что ты сейчас можешь
сделать, — это извиниться перед ней. 34. Первое, что я хочу сделать, — это хорошо
отдохнуть. 35. Единственное, что я сейчас хочу, — это, чтобы меня не беспокоили. 36. Мой
совет тебе — не приглашать его на вечер. 37. Моя мечта сейчас — рыбачить где-нибудь в
небольшой деревеньке.
Verb + infinitive
1. Я пыталась заснуть, но не могла. 2. Он согласился подождать еще два дня. 3. Мой брат
обещал навестить меня завтра. 4. Я намереваюсь вернуться в субботу. 5. Я забыл закрыть
сейф. 6. Он надеется сдать экзамен. 7. Я научился играть на пианино, когда мне было десять

лет. 8. Мы договорились встретиться у театра в 7 часов. 9. Я не могу себе позволить купить
такую дорогую вещь. 10. Я хочу сегодня остаться дома и отдохнуть. 11. Он решил не ехать на
юг в этом году. 12. Мне удалось закончить работу в срок. 13. Не забудь послать телеграмму.
14. Я не хотел причинить тебе боль. 15. Он отказался принять участие в соревнованиях. 16. Я
планирую устроить вечеринку. Аня предложила помочь мне, и я ей очень благодарна. 17. Он
угрожал, что расскажет обо всем моим родителям. 18. Я полагаю завершить эксперимент в
пятницу. 19. Мне нужно знать твое мнение. 20. Ей не удалось застать его дома. 21. Я не хотел
идти на собрание, но мне пришлось.
47
seem/happen/appear/prove/pretend + infinitive
1. Он притворился, что спит. 2. Кажется, они ждут вас внизу. 3. План оказался успешным. 4.
Кажется, мой друг хорошо проводит время на море. 5. Он оказался хорошим инженером. 6. Он
случайно посмотрел в том направлении и увидел, что из дома выбежал человек. 7. Вопрос кажется
им очень важным. 8. Кажется, он знает все об этом деле. 9. Казалось, что ему самому хотелось это
сделать. 10. Результаты эксперимента, казалось, огорчили их. 11. Он, казалось, не был удивлен
новостью. 12. Кажется, она ждет уже давно. 13. Оказывается, она знает его. 14. Случилось так, что
я рано уехал из офиса в тот день. 15. Кажется, что этот завод производит такое оборудование с
1986 года. 16. Кажется, что на их предложение нет возражений. 17. Оказалось, что есть еще одно
решение проблемы. 18. Случайно оказалось, что среди них был хирург. 19. Он, кажется, знает этот
предмет очень хорошо. 20. Он, по-видимому, много читал по этому вопросу. 21. Эта книга, по-
видимому, очень интересная. 22. Он, кажется, сердится на меня. 23. Вчера мы случайно встретили
г-на Грина. 24. Он, кажется, болен. 25. Они, по-видимому, пользовались этим справочником. 26.
Он оказался дома в это время. 27. Он оказался очень опытным работником. 28. Он притворился,
что напряженно работает. 29. Кажется, все студенты читали эту статью. 30. Он, кажется, болел все
это время. 31. Он, по-видимому, удовлетворен результатом своей работы. 32. Он, кажется, уехал
на юг. 33. Коробка, кажется, пустая. 34. Он оказался хорошим спортсменом. 35. Я случайно
встретил его в Сочи. 36. Эта задача оказалась очень трудной. 37. Я случайно слышал, как он
спросил ее об этом.
38. В этом журнале, кажется, есть много интересных статей.
39. В этой библиотеке, кажется, есть много иностранных книг.

40. Он, кажется, не очень умный человек. 41. Он, по-видимому, не знает французского языка. 42.
Казалось, они не интересуются этим вопросом. 43. Они оказались не очень опытными
преподавателями.
48
Verb + object + infinitive
I asked John to help me. I made/let him come. He was made to come. He was allowed to come.
1. Она попросила меня внимательно прочитать письмо и написать ответ. 2. Помоги мне нести эту
сумку. 3. Мой сын попросил меня разрешить ему сходить в кино. 4. Мужчина сказал мне, чтобы я
не ходил по траве. 5. Позвольте мне помочь вам в вашей работе. 6. Ты должен заставить его
упражняться час в день. 7. Его заставили придти. 8. Ее заставили подчиниться. 9. Капитан
приказал матросам вымыть палубу. 10. Он убедил меня присоединиться к ним. 11. Покупатели
просили продавцов снизить цену. 12. Представитель фирмы просил директора послать документы
воздушной почтой. 13. Мой брат учил меня кататься на велосипеде. 14. Мой друг посоветовал мне
заняться теннисом. 15. Моя мать не разрешала мне купаться. 16. Он предупредил меня, чтобы я
был осторожен.
17. Преподаватель сказал нам, чтобы мы не писали на полях.
18. Я не мог убедить ее принять мое предложение. 19. Отец запретил мне пользоваться его
машиной. 20. Я убедил его помочь ей. 21. Я попросил машинистку напечатать несколько писем.
22. Он разрешил детям искупаться. 23. Мы пригласили их присоединиться к нам. 24. Я напомнила
сестре, чтобы она принесла мой словарь. 25. Он настаивал, чтобы я занялся спортом. 26. Нам не
разрешалось пользоваться словарем. 27. Они заставили его сказать правду. 28. Она умоляла врачей
спасти ее ребенка. 29. Мне разрешили пользоваться библиотекой. 30. Его заставили помочь ей.
I want you to come. I'd like you to come. I expect him to join us.
1. Я хотел бы, чтобы вы подождали меня здесь. 2. Он хочет, чтобы его сын стал учителем. 3. Мы
не ожидали, что он приедет так рано. 4. Все думали, что они поженятся. 5. Хотите ли вы, чтобы я
вам помог? 6. Я хочу, чтобы его статья была опубликована. 7. Доктор не хочет, чтобы я поехал на
юг. 8. Капитан хотел, чтобы товары были погружены немедленно. 9. Где
49
вы хотите, чтобы я подождал вас? 10. Я ожидал, что он поможет мне. 11. Она не любит, чтобы
дети готовили уроки вечером. 12. Я хочу, чтобы вы взяли эту статью и перевели ее. 13. Никто не

ожидал, что погода изменится так внезапно. 14. Я хочу, чтобы ты была счастлива. 15. Ты ожидала,
что он тебе напишет? 16. Я хотел бы, чтобы он принял участие в нашей экспедиции. 17. Он любит,
чтобы студенты задавали ему вопросы. 18. Он не ожидал, что они приедут так рано.
I know him to be an honest man.
1. Я знаю, что он очень опытный преподаватель. 2. Я считаю, что я прав. 3. Я считаю, что этот
вопрос очень важный. 4. Я полагаю, что он очень умный человек. 5. Считаете ли вы, что он
опытный врач? 6. Я полагаю, что эта информация очень важна. 7. Я нахожу, что он слишком
самоуверен. 8. Я предполагаю, что он знает правду. 9. Я считаю его честным и надежным
товарищем. 10. Я думаю, что эта статья представляет большой интерес.
Не is said/supposed/thought, etc. to be clever.
1. Полагают, что он в Лондоне. 2. Ожидается, что зима в этом году будет холодная. 3. Говорят, что
этот дом был построен около двухсот лет назад. 4. Полагают, что пожар начался ночью. 5.
Полагали, что он уже уехал. 6. Известно, что он придерживается иного мнения по этому вопросу.
7. Сообщают, что экспедиция выехала 15 мая. 8. Ожидают, что договор будет подписан на этой
неделе. 9. Считают, что он один из лучших хирургов нашей страны. 10. Сообщалось, что делега-
ция прибудет ночью. 11. Предполагается, что он должен хорошо знать эту проблему. 12. Говорят,
что он был женат раньше. 13. Полагают, что они доберутся до места назначения вовремя. 14.
Сообщалось, что конференция состоится в Париже. 15. Известно, что он хороший специалист в
области электроники. 16. Полагают, что его пригласят на конференцию.
50
The infinitive of purpose
1. Все было сделано для того, чтобы спасти его. 2. Он вызвал машину, чтобы отвезти нас на
вокзал. 3. Я встал в 6 часов, чтобы не опоздать на утренний поезд. 4. Я написал ему письмо, чтобы
напомнить ему о его обещании. 5. Ребенок выбежал навстречу матери. 6. Он шел медленно, чтобы
не упасть. 7. Она делала все, чтобы угодить ему. 8. Я сейчас же запишу номер вашего телефона,
чтобы не забыть его. 9. Я пришел, чтобы поговорить с вами о важном деле. 10. Надень теплое
пальто, чтобы не простудиться. 11. Он пошел в библиотеку, чтобы взять журналы и книги,
которые ему нужны для экзамена по истории. 12. Он лег на диван, чтобы отдохнуть немного. 13.
Он положил ключ в портфель, чтобы не потерять его. 14. Она всегда гуляет вечером, чтобы лучше
спать. 15. Он прочитал правило несколько раз, чтобы лучше понять его. 16. Он писал диктант

очень внимательно, чтобы не сделать ошибок. 17. Я пришел, чтобы проститься с вами.
The infinitive after adjectives
1. Он боялся забыть о своем обещании. 2. Я рад, что послушался вашего совета. 3. Мне жаль, что я
не видела эту пьесу. 4. Он был в восторге, увидев ее на вечере. 5. Мы удивились, когда встретили
его у вас дома. 6. Он был огорчен, что не достал билет на концерт. 7. Любезно с вашей стороны
помочь мне. 8. Очень глупо с его стороны было вести себя подобным образом. 9. Ребенок
слишком мал, чтобы понять вашу шутку. 10. Он достаточно умен, чтобы справиться с этой
работой. 11. Было уже слишком поздно, чтобы менять что-нибудь. 12. Этот чемодан слишком
тяжелый для меня. 13. Было недостаточно тепло, чтобы купаться. 14. Я слишком устал, чтобы
идти в кино сегодня. 15. Было еще достаточно светло, чтобы читать. 16. Он ушел из лаборатории
последним. 17. Он отвечал вторым. 18. Я пришел первым. 19. Ему трудно угодить. 20. С ней
трудно иметь дело. 21. Она хорошенькая (у нее привлекательная внешность). 22. Он очень
изменился. Его трудно узнать. 23. Он очень хорошо танцует. С ним приятно танцевать.
51
The infinitive after nouns
1. У нас есть что-нибудь вкусное, чтобы подать на десерт?
2. Предстоит упаковать еще много вещей. 3. У меня нет времени навестить ее сегодня. 4. Он не
такой человек, чтобы волноваться о пустяках. 5. У вас есть друзья, которые смогли бы вам
помочь? 6. У нее есть больной ребенок, за которым она должна присматривать. 7. Я на этой неделе
буду занят; у меня много дел. 8. Она всегда найдет над чем посмеяться. 9. Не о чем было
беспокоиться. Больной чувствовал себя лучше. 10. Вот человек, с которым можно поговорить на
эту тему. И. У меня нет желания ехать на юг. 12. Его предложение помочь нам удивило нас. 13. Я
был удивлен его отказом поехать с нами.
The infinitive after question words
1. Я не имею ни малейшего представления, как помочь ей.
2. Яне знал, где провести отпуск. 3. Вы не скажете, как пройти к Площади Независимости? 4. Я не
могла решить, ехать ли домой или провести ночь на даче. 5. Она объяснила мне, как приготовить
салат. 6. Я не могу решить, что надеть на вечер. 7. Я не знаю, когда начать сажать картофель. 8. Я
не знаю, где купить эту книгу. 9. Я не имею ни малейшего представления, как водить машину. 10.
Я не знаю, что подарить ему на день рождения.

See someone do and see someone doing
1. Я никогда не слышал, как он говорит по-французски. 2. Он не слышал, как я постучал в дверь. 3.