Chapter 11 – Verbs 3: The imperative, the infinitive, participles
Three areas relating to the verb are examined separately in this chapter: the imperative mood, the infinitive (the form of the verb which is not inflected) and the present and past participles.
The first section explains the use of the imperative for commands, warnings etc. and points to an important difference between French and English in the position of pronouns. The forms of three persons of the imperative are outlined, and examples given of the position and order of pronouns in this mood, which differ according to whether the sentence is in the affirmative and the negative. The main uses of the imperative are described.
Key points of the infinitive are shown in the next part of the chapter, notably the three conjugations, and its occasional function as a noun. Examples are given of its uses in place of the imperative, after modal verbs and as a noun. A lengthy section details an important feature of syntax, the use of prepositions, especially à and de, which precede the infinitive after a large number of verbs.
The final section of this chapter explains the functions of the present and past participles, which can be both a verb and a verbal adjective. The meaning, formation and uses of the present participle are explained, as well as its use in gerund constructions with en. The past participle, which can act as an adjective, verb or noun, is also explained in detail, with a special focus on irregular forms and agreements.
The last part of the chapter contains a passage with many examples of these three forms of the verb in it, which are then analysed. At the end of the chapter there are five exercises for grammar practice.