Match the infinitive form to the time relationship after a passive reporting verb: the simple infinitive for the same time or future, as in he is expected to arrive soon, the perfect infinitive for an earlier action, and the continuous infinitive for an ongoing action, as in the fugitive is thought to be hiding in the forest.
Grammar Rule
Passive reporting verbs present claims or estimates without naming the source; the infinitive form must match the time relationship.
Passive Reporting Verbs (Extension): Rules and Examples
| Infinitive form | Time | Example |
|---|---|---|
| simple infinitive | same time / future | He is expected to arrive soon. |
| perfect infinitive (to have + participle) | earlier action | The painting is believed to have been stolen decades ago. |
| continuous infinitive (to be + -ing) | ongoing action | The fugitive is thought to be hiding in the forest. |
Remember: simple infinitive = same time/future; perfect infinitive = earlier action; continuous infinitive = ongoing action.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using the correct infinitive form after a passive reporting verb. 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.
B2-32. Passive Reporting Verbs Extension
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Frequently Asked Questions
What infinitive form do you use for the same time or future?
The simple infinitive, as in he is expected to arrive soon.
What infinitive form do you use for an earlier action?
The perfect infinitive, to have plus the past participle, as in the painting is believed to have been stolen decades ago.
What infinitive form do you use for an ongoing action?
The continuous infinitive, to be plus the -ing form, as in the fugitive is thought to be hiding in the forest.
Why is this structure useful?
It presents claims or estimates without naming who made them, which is common in news and academic writing.