Language/French/Grammar/Introduction-What-are-infinitives
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Understanding infinitives is crucial for mastering French, as they form the base of verbs and are used in various expressions and constructs. An infinitive is the most basic form of a verb, unmarked for tense, mood, or person. This lesson will introduce you to infinitives in French and explore their significance and uses.
Definition[edit | edit source]
In French, infinitives are the raw form of a verb, the way you would find it in a dictionary. The infinitive is not conjugated and thus can be considered the "neutral" form of the verb. In French, infinitives end in "-er," "-ir," or "-re."
Types of Infinitives[edit | edit source]
French infinitives can be classified into three main categories based on their endings:
- -er verbs: like "manger" (to eat), "parler" (to speak)
- -ir verbs: like "finir" (to finish), "choisir" (to choose)
- -re verbs: like "prendre" (to take), "être" (to be)
Usage[edit | edit source]
Infinitives can be used in various grammatical constructs, such as:
- After prepositions: "avant de manger" (before eating)
- With modal verbs: "Je veux manger" (I want to eat)
- To give commands: "Ne pas toucher !" (Do not touch!)
Examples[edit | edit source]
Here are some sentences that utilize infinitives in French:
- J'aime nager. (I like to swim.)
- Il doit partir. (He has to leave.)
- Nous venons de manger. (We have just eaten.)
Practice Exercise[edit | edit source]
Identify the infinitive in the following sentence: "Elle adore lire." Translate into French: "I need to speak." Create a sentence using an -ir verb in its infinitive form.
Answers to Practice Exercise[edit | edit source]
Lire J'ai besoin de parler. Nous aimons finir nos devoirs tôt.