不定式分句可以在句子中作主语和主语补语、宾语和宾语补语、状语等。具体而言:
1. 作主语和主语补语:
To finish the work is very easy.
完成这项工作很容易。(=It is very easy to finish the work.)
Last year, the wisest policy was not to interfere any more.去年最明智的政策就是不再干预。
2. 作宾语和宾语补语:
I learned to speak English when I was young. 我小时候就学习说英语了。
The teacher’s greatest wish is to see his student pass the final exam.这个老师最大的心愿就是看到学生们通过期末考试。
My teacher advised me to study abroad for further education.老师建议我留学深造。
3. 作状语:
(1)表目的:
She opened the window to get more fresh air. 她打开窗户呼吸更多新鲜空气。
(2)表结果:
He hurried to the station only to be told that the train had left.
他匆忙赶到车站,结果火车已经走了。
(3)表原因:
I was really lucky to pass the final exam. 能通过考试,我真的很幸运。
I am sorry to hear that news. 听到这则消息,我感到很抱歉。
由上可知,不定式分句作为一种分句结构,主要有以上三种句法功能。当然,它还可以在名词词组中作修饰语,在形容词词组中作补足成分,这里就不一一赘述。