0
Anonymous Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

USE OF "TO BE"

I dont understand why we use "to be" in a sentence and gramatically in which type of sentences we use "to be" e.g.
1. "It needs to be done
2. It needs to be rectified etc.
3. We seem to be working cross purposes.
Would appreciate if someone help me in understanding it. Regards!
  

Top answer

Hello, the verb "to be" is used in many different grammar constructions. - In your first and second examples, it is used as simple passive infinitive - It needs to be done . g.

— Hamdam Atajanov

  • Hello, the verb "to be" is used in many different grammar constructions.
  • - In your first and second examples, it is used as simple passive infinitive - It needs to be done .
  • g.
  • done, rectified" structure.
  • - In your third example, it is used as continuous infinitive - We seem to be working .
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

2 Answers
0
Hello, the verb "to be" is used in many different grammar constructions.
- In your first and second examples, it is used as simple passive infinitive - It needs to be done. When you use passive, there is always "to be+ past participle, e.g. done, rectified" structure.
- In your third example, it is used as continuous infinitive - We seem to be working. When you use c
0
0
to be is an infinitive form. Some grammatical contexts require an infinitive, so in those cases you use to be instead of is or are, for example.

Both 'need' and 'seem' can take an infinitive.

I need to go. Susan needs to buy a new coat.
I need to be there. The machine needs to be in working condition.
The radios
0

Related Questions