Here's how it works:
* Infinitives: Infinitives are the basic form of a verb, usually preceded by "to" (e.g., to run, to eat, to sleep).
* Adverbs: Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, providing information about how, when, where, or to what extent something happens.
When an infinitive acts as an adverb, it tells us how, when, where, or why the action of the main verb is performed.
Examples:
* To avoid getting lost, we used a map. (The infinitive "to avoid getting lost" explains the reason for using the map, acting as an adverb of purpose.)
* She went to the store to buy milk. (The infinitive "to buy milk" explains the purpose of going to the store, acting as an adverb of purpose.)
* The car screeched to a halt. (The infinitive "to a halt" indicates how the car stopped, acting as an adverb of manner.)
Key characteristics of adverbial infinitives:
* They often answer the questions "how," "when," "where," or "why."
* They can be placed before or after the main verb.
* They are usually preceded by "to."
Let me know if you'd like more examples or have further questions!