Verbals: Infinitives

[gs.abhinav]

Hi,

This is in reference to the advanced topic on verbs and comparisons. Page 250 mentions that the subject of the main verb must also be the subject of the infinitive.

I tried to apply this rule to the following construction to verify that the usage of the infinitive "to deal" is correct here. I was not quite convinced because grammatically the construction is correct but as per the rule the subject of the main verb and infinitive is not the same here?? Am I making a mistake here?

Carbon dioxide, a major pollutant, is a serious problem because it diminishes the respiratory system’s ability to deal with other pollutants.

Thanks.

[reachdeepaky]

The rule applies only to Infinitive of purpose.

In your sentense, the infinitive is not used to show intent or purpose and hence the rule doesn't apply. This is my understanding.

Any expert may add on or correct me.

[gs.abhinav]

Hi reachdeepaky,

thanks for your inputs, I think you may be correct here. what is your strategy to check for correct usage of infinitive in a construction?

[reachdeepaky]

Whenever you see infinitive of purpose in a sentence, you have to use infinitive form. Dont use the For+verbing expression in such case. Instead use to+verb or in order to + verb.

Check out "in order to" idiom in SC guide. You will understand better.

Verbing expression can be used in progressive tenses. Try to avoid progressive tenses when u can use other tenses. The SC guide tells this. At the same time i have also observed that sentences which use progressive tenses are incorrect most of the times. Read the SC guide - Verb mood voice tense chapter. you will understand better.

[reachdeepaky]

Also make sure that when there is infinitive of purpose, there is a proper subject. In other words, purpose cannot be demonstrated by inanimate objects like coffee, building etc... subject such as investors, contractors, I, we... etc can demonstate intent or purpose. Only when such subject which can demonstrate intent exists, you can use infinitive of purpose.

[gs.abhinav]

Thanks buddy, that was good stuff.

I have read the guide but I was a bit vary about certain things. I think your advice about progressive tenses makes sense - Use when required and in the right context.

[tim]

Good analysis, reachdeepaky..