動詞不定式(to do)有形容詞性質,可以在句中充當定語(只能後置)。
一、不定式定語和被修飾詞之間是邏輯動賓或邏輯介賓關係。舉例:
He has got many things to do. 他有許多要做的事情。
I need a pen to write with. 我需要一支筆來寫字。
二、如果被修飾前有序數詞、the next、the last、the only 等修飾詞的時候,則不定式定語和被修飾詞之間是邏輯主謂關係。舉例:
The next train to arrive was from New York. 下一列到站的車是從紐約開來的。
He was always the first to come and the last to leave the office. 他總是最早到辦公室,最晚離開。
三、被修飾詞是動詞派生的抽象名詞或形容詞派生的抽象名詞時,一般用不定式作為後置定語。舉例:
His wish to visit China is quite understandable. 他訪問中國的願望是完全可以理解的。(名詞 wish 派生自動詞 wish)
He is known for his ability to speak four languages. 他以能講四國語言而聞名。(名詞 ability 派生自形容詞 able)