German grammar: Infinitiv mit zu

What this grammar point covers

The 'Infinitiv mit zu' in German is a structure where you use 'zu' with the infinitive form of a verb. It is similar to saying 'to do' something in English.

When to use it

You use 'Infinitiv mit zu' in German after certain verbs, adjectives, and nouns. It is often used when you want to express purpose, intentions, or after expressions like 'es ist wichtig', 'ich habe Lust', or 'ich hoffe'.

Key forms

• zu + infinitive (at the end of the clause)
• Ich habe vergessen, das Fenster zu schließen.
• Es ist wichtig, pünktlich zu sein.

Examples

Tips

• Remember that 'zu' comes directly before the infinitive verb, and the whole phrase goes to the end of the sentence.
• Do not use 'zu' after modal verbs like 'können', 'müssen', 'wollen', etc.
• Pay attention to verbs that require 'zu' and those that do not.

Exceptions and edge cases

• After modal verbs (können, müssen, wollen, sollen, dürfen, mögen), do not use 'zu'.
• After some verbs like 'lassen', 'sehen', 'hören', do not use 'zu'.