• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Home of English Grammar
  • Home
  • Course
  • Exercises
  • Grammar Rules
  • Matches
  • Posts
  • Tools
    • Grammar Checker
    • Very Replacer
    • Word Counter
  • Vocabulary Lists
  • Archives
    • Social Media Posts
    • Writing Guides
  • Join free

Infinitive with its own subject

February 26, 2012 pdf

The structure for + noun / pronoun + infinitive is very common in English. This structure is used when an infinitive needs its own subject.

Compare:

I will be happy to do the housework. (= I will do the housework.)

I will be happy for Ann to do the housework. (= Ann will do the housework.)

My dream was to get a good job. (= I wanted to get a good job.)

My dream was for him to get a good job. (= I wanted him to get a good job.)

Note that we use object pronouns after for.

I will be happy for them to help you. (NOT I will be happy for they to help you.)

This structure is common after adjectives expressing wishes and other personal feelings.

She is anxious for her daughter to get a good job.

He said that he would be delighted for us to come and stay.

For structures with preparatory it are also common.

It is important for the meeting to start at six.

Is it necessary for him to start work this week?

Note that this structure is not possible after likely and probable.

She will probably arrive this evening. OR It is probable that she will arrive this evening. (BUT NOT It is probable for her to arrive this evening.)

Primary Sidebar

2.4M761.4K165.8K

Free 2026 Grammar Guide

  • Download Grammar Guide (PDF)
  • Online grammar course, A1 to C2
  • Weekly exercises and vocabulary
  • Join over 3 million English learners

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.

Already have an account? Sign in

Grammar Checker - Try Now

Latest Posts

  • Articles in Short Descriptions Exercise October 16, 2026
  • Help, assist, aid, support, and facilitate: how to choose October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Characteristics” October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Plenty” October 16, 2026
  • Crash blossoms: when headlines suggest the wrong meaning October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Remind” October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Unkind” October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Changing” October 16, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Platitude” October 15, 2026
  • 100 Best Synonyms for “Reluctant” October 15, 2026
Home of English Grammar

Free English grammar exercises, rules and vocabulary lists, with new exercises every week. Join the leading English grammar site with over 3 million followers.

Join free

Learn

  • Exercises
  • Matches
  • Grammar rules
  • Vocabulary lists
  • Writing guides
  • Online tools

More

  • Top social media posts
  • Various posts
  • Contact

Account

  • Join free
  • Grammar Course
  • Free grammar guide (PDF)

Copyright © 2026 EnglishGrammar.org

  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms
  • Sitemap