LESSON XXXVIII.
The preceding lesson treated of verbs that are limited by their subjects as to number and person; as, I am here. John is here. The boys are here. Hence these verbs are called finite verbs.
This lesson will treat of verbs that are not so limited; hence they are called infinitive verbs.
THE INFINITIVE.
Select from the following sentences forms of verbs that are used (1) as a noun, (2) as an adverb, and (3) as an adjective:—
| 1. | I like to sing. | |
| 2. | I came to see the ship. | |
| 3. | Have you any water to drink? |
The form of the verb that does not make an assertion, and that is not limited as to person and number is called the infinitive.
The infinitive may be used as a noun; as, To forgive is divine.
The infinitive may be used as an adverb; as, I came to call you back.
The infinitive may be used as an adjective; as, He has no pen to write with.