Inconsistent Past Tense

Question

Hi all,   the statement:"James heard Tom yell."      is obviously correct structure, but to explain Why "yell" isn't inflected to make the entire sentence consistent in the past tense leaves me at a loss. I'm thinking that yell doesn't take any tense as it is an infinitive, without "to".  what are your thoughts?Thanks!

Avangi · Accepted Answer

I hear "yell" as an infinitive    -    yes.<img class='emoticon' style='Width:19px;Height:19px;' data-delaysrc='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/78.gif' src='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/78.gif' alt='Emotion: nodding'/>

BarbaraPA · Answer

curiouscat I'm thinking that yell doesn't take any tense

Right. After watch, see, listen, hear... I'm sure there are others, but they are not in my head. (This is the type of question that CJ usually has right up his sleeve.)

I saw them play last year.
I am watching them play.
I will watch/see them play next month.

I heard her sing.
I am listening to her sing.
I will get to hear/listen to her sing next week.

Inconsistent Past Tense

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