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Verbs that can be followed by object + infinitive

April 25, 2011 pdf

Many English verbs are followed by object + infinitive, rather than by a that-clause.

Examples are: advise, allow, ask, beg, cause, command, compel, encourage, expect, forbid, force, get, hate, help, instruct, intend, invite, leave, like, love, mean, need, oblige, order, permit, prefer, recommend, remind, request, teach, tell, tempt, trouble, want, warn, wish etc.

  • I don’t want him to go. (NOT I don’t want that he goes.)
  • We don’t allow people to smoke in the kitchen.
  • I asked him to pay for the meal.
  • I advised him to stop smoking.
  • He taught us to forgive.
  • I requested him to help me.
  • We expect them to turn up in time.
  • My parents always encouraged me to explore newer horizons.

Some verbs are followed by object + infinitive without to. Examples are: let, make, see, hear, feel, watch, notice, have etc.

  • Why don’t you let me go? (NOT Why don’t you let me to go?)
  • I heard her sing a lovely song. (NOT I heard her to sing a lovely song.)

Note that many of the verbs listed above can also be followed by an –ing form or a that-clause.

Some verbs cannot be followed by object + infinitive. Example: suggest.

  • I suggested that she should consult a doctor. (NOT I suggested her to consult a doctor.)

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