I want to call concerns my own call. I want the driver to call names a different person for the second action. The object before the infinitive makes that link clear.
The idea
Use verb + object + to + base verb: encouraged us to take, expect the repairs to take. Pronouns use object forms such as me, him, her, us, them. For a negative action, put not before to: advised me not to lift.
Examples
- The coach encouraged us to take a break.
- I want the delivery driver to call me.
- Ravi asked his neighbour to water the seedlings.
- We expect the repairs to take two days.
- The guide reminded them to bring a torch.
- She advised me not to lift the heavy box alone.
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Watch out
The object can be a person or thing, as with the repairs. A request, expectation or encouragement does not prove the action happened. These verbs can have other patterns: advise waiting is possible without naming a recipient, alongside advise someone to wait.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. The coach encouraged ___ to take a break. (us / we)
Show answer or example answer
us
Us is the object form after encouraged. It identifies the people encouraged to take the break; subject we does not fit this position.
Choose the correct option. I want the delivery driver ___ me. (to call / call)
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to call
Want + object takes to call for the desired action. The bare form call cannot replace that infinitive here.
Choose the correct option. She advised me ___ the heavy box alone. (not to lift / not lift)
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not to lift
The negative infinitive is not to lift. The advice concerns avoiding the lifting, and the construction still requires to.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. The coach encouraged ___ to take a break. (us / we)
Choose the correct option. I want the delivery driver ___ me. (to call / call)
Choose the correct option. She advised me ___ the heavy box alone. (not to lift / not lift)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Write one wish about your own action with I want to... and another about someone else's action with I want them to.... Add a reminder that identifies its recipient.