In Grammar 12-1, you looked at how to use verbs in the infinitive and gerund (-ing) form. In this lesson, you’ll learn some of the ways you can use infinitives and gerunds in their passive forms.
Passive Infinitive Verb Patterns
The passive form of infinitive verbs can be used after main verbs as verb complements as well as after modal verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Passive infinitives are formed with be + past participle.
Verb Complements
You can use passive infinitives as the verb complement of certain main verbs to express a variety of meanings like necessity, preference, and expectation. These structures can be used with or without an object and they can be used with not to form negative sentences.
Necessity:
- The rice needs to be thoroughly washed before you start cooking it.
- The law requires all pets to be registered with the city.
- The children have to be told that they can’t play in this area while the construction work is being done.
Preference and Expectation:
- They want their new house to be painted before they move in.
- I prefer not to be told anything about a movie before I see it.
- Most people like to be treated with respect and fairness when they interact with the police.
- They are expecting the new art complex to be completed early next year.
- I’m hoping not to be chosen for the project because I don’t think I have enough time to participate.
- The director wishes to be notified if any changes are made to the film.
Modal Verbs
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