oxford_guide_to_english_grammar

PAGE 155
124 Noun phrase + to-infinitive
124 Noun phrase + to-infinitive
1 The pattern the need to write
a
b
We can use a to-infinitive clause after some verbs and adjectives.
I need to write a letter. We are determined to succeed.
We can also use an infinitive after a related noun.
Is there really any need to write a letter?
We shall never lose our determination to succeed.
Our decision to oppose the scheme was the right one.
Everyone laughed at Jerry's attempt to impress the girls.
Some nouns in this pattern are:
ability decision intention proposal
agreement demand need refusal
ambition desire offer reluctance
anxiety determination plan request
arrangement eagerness preparations willingness
attempt failure promise wish
choice
Some other nouns with similar meanings can take a to-infinitive, e.g. chance,
effort, opportunity, scheme, time.
There will be an opportunity to inspect the plans.
c But some nouns take a preposition + ing-form, not an infinitive. • 132(7)
There's no hope of getting there in time.
2 The pattern letters to write
In this pattern the to-infinitive expresses necessity or possibility.
I've got some letters to write. (= letters that I have to write)
Take something to read on the train. (= something that you can read)
The doctor had a number of patients to see.
The to-infinitive clause here is shorter and neater than the finite clause with have
to or can.
NOTE
a For letters to be written, • 113(2).
b Compare these sentences.
I have some work to do. (= I have/There is some work that I need to do.)
I have to do some work. (= I must do/I need to do some work.)
Other patterns with a noun phrase + to-infinitive
For the pattern with it, e.g. It's a good idea to wear safety glasses, •118.
For patterns with for and of, e.g. It's best for people to make their own arrangements, • 126.
For the first person to leave, • 277.