Fill in the blanks.
1. She didn’t want ……………………
Want is usually followed by object + infinitive. That-clauses are not normally used after want.
2. They don’t allow ………………………….
3. I didn’t ask ………………………….. the tickets.
That-clauses are unusual after ask.
4. Why don’t you let me ………………………?
Some verbs are followed by object + infinitive without to. Let is one of them.
5. I watched the kids ………………………… in the garden.
Watch is followed by object + infinitive without to.
6. I heard her ………………………….. the door and go out.
Heard is followed by an infinitive without to.
7. I suggested ………………………… consult a doctor.
Suggest cannot be followed by object + infinitive.
8. You are advised ……………………………. early.
Passive forms of advise can be followed by object + infinitive.
9. Is it the first time ……………………………. here?
Here the expression first time has no subject relationship with the following verb and hence the infinitive structure is not possible here.
10. She is the oldest athlete …………………… an Olympic medal.
Superlatives can usually be followed by an infinitive structure. The meaning is very similar to an identifying relative clause.
11. I saw him .................................... the money.
After see, the infinitive is used without to.
12. You don't look happy ....................................... me.
Happy is followed by an infinitive with to.
Answers
1. She didn’t want me to go.
2. They don’t allow visitors to access the library.
3. I didn’t ask you to buy the tickets.
4. Why don’t you let me explain?
5. I watched the kids play in the garden.
6. I heard her open the door and go out.
7. I suggested that she should consult a doctor.
8. You are advised to come early.
9. Is it the first time that you have stayed here?
10. She is the oldest athlete who has ever won / ever to win an Olympic medal.
11. I saw him steal the money.
12. You don’t look happy to me.
