被動語態不定詞
被動式不定詞是用在某些使用被動語態的句構上。尤其常用在助動詞(may、should、could 等)後面來表達「什麼是可能的」、「該如何做才正確」,尤其常見。被動不定詞的構成為:
to be + 過去分詞
如同現在式不定詞,有些時候必須用上不帶 to 的被動語態不定詞,因此 to 會被省略掉。這種情況會發生在多數情態助動詞後,以及用在其他使用零不定詞的地方。
舉例
- I am expecting to be given a pay-rise next month.
- She is hoping to be elected president.
- The carpet needs to be washed.
- These doors should be shut at night.
- This window may be opened but that one must stay closed.
- Alice could be given a prize for her artwork.