The perfect and non-perfect forms

The perfect and non-perfect forms of the infinitive differ in that a non-perfect form denotes an action simultaneous with (or posteriorto) that of the finite verb form, while a perfect infinitive denotes an action priorto that of the finite verb form.

Table4. Non-perfect forms of the infinitive

Table 5. Perfect forms of the Infinitive

The above tables illustrate the fact that the infinitive does not show any time reference by itself, the time of the action expressed by the infinitive can be understood only through its reference to the time indicated by the finite verb. So the reference to time in the infinitive is not absolute but relative as the form of the infinitive can show only simultaneity or priority.

95. To… and preposition +ing (afraid to do and afraid of –ing, etc).

97. What verbals can be used as subject or object?

Infinitive or gerund may be used as subject: To ask that question at the time was not very tactful.

Asking such questions was not very tactful.

Infinitive or gerund is often used as object (direct or indirect).

a) Direct object: He liked to ask questions.

He liked asking questions.

Both the infinitive and gerund will be used here after the verbs denoting liking (disliking), remembering (forgetting): like, dislike, hate, want (in the meaning of desire), detest, remember, forget and such phrases as “can’t bear”, “can’t afford”. But only gerund will be used after the verbs delay, excuse, out off, want (in the meaning of need), and the adjectives like, busy, worth.

The question is worth answering.

b) Indirect prepositional object. I am tired of answering such questions.

Only the gerund is used in this function after certain verbs requiring a prepositional object or when used as object to such adjectives as fond of, tired of, proud of, ignorant of, used to.

98. What are the verbs which can be followed by –ing or to with a difference of meaning?