We have certain stereotyped verb-phrases such as make free, think best, and see fit, in which the adjective is so closely related to the verb that it is placed next to it, and the two words have acquired the meaning of one verb. Make free has almost the meaning of dare; for the other two phrases there are no good substitutes. These phrases are followed by an infinitive phrase used as direct object. For example,—“A native of that region saw fit to build his house very near it.”—Holmes.
Exercise 33
Explain how the verbs and verbals in the following sentences are completed.
1. Enthusiasm had made them Stoics.—Macaulay.
2. To make the common marvellous is the test of genius.—Lowell.
3. For the purpose of public instruction we hold every man subject to taxation in proportion to his property.—Webster.
4. None but the dissolute among the poor look upon the rich as their natural enemies.—Ruskin.
5. He had so far completed his preparations as to have leisure to be talking himself hot and hoarse with the neighboring barber.—Howells.
6. Alfred left England better, wiser, happier in all ways than he found it.—Dickens.
7. Grenadier, I salute you; you have proved yourself the bravest of the brave.