Infinitive Phrases
* Definition: An infinitive phrase is a group of words that includes an infinitive (the basic form of a verb preceded by "to") and any modifiers or complements that go with it.
* Structure: "to" + verb + (optional modifiers and complements)
* Examples:
* to run a marathon (infinitive + object)
* to eat quickly (infinitive + adverb)
* to read a book by the fireplace (infinitive + object + prepositional phrase)
Key Points about Infinitive Phrases:
* Function: They often act as nouns (subject, object), adjectives, or adverbs within a sentence.
* Not a complete sentence: An infinitive phrase by itself does not have a subject, so it's not a complete thought.
Examples in Sentences:
* To travel the world is her dream. (Infinitive phrase as subject)
* He decided to buy a new car. (Infinitive phrase as object)
* She is eager to start her new job. (Infinitive phrase as adjective)
* They came to see the show. (Infinitive phrase as adverb)
Clauses
* Definition: A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb.
* Types of Clauses:
* Independent Clause: A complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence.
* Dependent Clause: A group of words with a subject and verb, but it cannot stand alone as a sentence. It needs an independent clause to make a complete thought.
Examples of Clauses:
* Independent Clause: The sun is shining. (Complete sentence)
* Dependent Clause: When the sun is shining. (Not a complete sentence)
Key Points about Clauses:
* Complete sentences: Independent clauses make complete sentences.
* Incomplete sentences: Dependent clauses need to be attached to an independent clause to create a complete thought.
Let me know if you'd like more specific examples or have any other questions!