Extended infinitive clauses with zu
Infinitive clauses with zu allow German to package intention, result, or purpose efficiently.
Examples
GermanTranslation
Er versucht, die Aufgabe ohne Hilfe zu lösen.
He is trying to solve the task without help.
Es ist schwer, alles gleichzeitig zu organisieren.
It is hard to organize everything at the same time.
Sie hat beschlossen, früher nach Hause zu fahren.
She decided to drive home earlier.
Pattern
..., zu + infinitive
How it works
Infinitive clauses with zu allow German to package intention, result, or purpose efficiently. This pattern typically appears as ..., zu + infinitive and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- The infinitive clause often depends on a verb, adjective, or noun in the main clause.
- Separable verbs keep their prefix together inside the infinitive.
Why it matters
German written style often packs more meaning into fewer clauses.
Use in context
This structure is common in advice, planning, and more formal explanatory prose.