Noun phrase + TO-infinitive
There are various structures with noun phrases and the to-infinitive:
Noun phrase + TO-infinitive
Some nouns can be followed by a to-infinitive. Many of these nouns have been formed from adjectives or verbs normally followed by a to-infinitive:
The ability to cooperate with others is as important as managing on our own.
Our decision to close the firm was a difficult one to make.
We were surprised at his offer to take us home.
As a result of his failure to pay the mortgage, his house was foreclosed.
She showed no willingness to help.
| Nouns followed by the to-infinitive | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ability advice agreement ambition anxiety appeal arrangement attempt |
chance choice decision demand desire determination dream eagerness |
failure goal intention motivation need offer opportunity order |
permission plan preparation promise proposal recommendation refusal reluctance |
reminder request requirement suggestion tendency way willingness wish |
IT + linking verb + noun phrase (+ FOR + somebody) + TO-infinitive
It's a pity (for them) to lose such a good player.
It's a privilege (for me) to be invited to this conference.
It would be a mistake (for you) to hire him.
It's a pleasure (for us) to have you here.
Noun phrase + TO-infinitive to express necessity or possibility
There is a lot of work to do around the farm. (There is a lot of work that we need to do around the farm.)
I have some e-mails to write. (I have some e-mails that I have to write.)
She had two more clients to call that afternoon. (She had two more clients that she had to call that afternoon.)
Let's get something to eat. (Let's get something that we can eat.)
