Use the pattern verb plus object plus to plus infinitive with verbs like want, ask, tell, and expect, as in I want you to help me or she asked him to close the door. Never use that or the gerund after the object, and never omit to before the infinitive.
Grammar Rule
Some English verbs follow the pattern verb + object (person) + to + infinitive. Common verbs with this structure are want, need, would like, ask, tell, and expect. Never use that or the gerund after the object, and never omit to.
Verb + Object + Infinitive: Rules and Examples
| Verb | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| want / would like | verb + person + to + infinitive | I want you to help me. He would like you to come to the party. |
| ask / tell | verb + person + to + infinitive | She asked him to close the door. They told us to wait outside. |
| expect | verb + person + to + infinitive | We expect them to arrive on time. |
Remember: verb + person + to + infinitive, never that or the gerund.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using the verb + object + infinitive pattern correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Verb Patterns – Verb + Object + Infinitive
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the verb + object + infinitive pattern?
It is a structure where a verb is followed by a person and then to plus the infinitive, as in I want you to help me.
Which verbs commonly use this pattern?
Common verbs include want, would like, ask, tell, and expect, as in they told us to wait outside.
Can you use that instead of to plus infinitive after the object?
No, never use that or the gerund after the object in this pattern; to plus the infinitive is required, as in she asked him to close the door.
Can to be omitted before the infinitive in this pattern?
No, to must never be omitted; the pattern always requires verb plus person plus to plus infinitive.