B2 — Upper Intermediate+50 XP available

Interactive Grammar: Passive Infinitives

Form and use passive infinitive structures — to be done, to have been done.

Grammar Explanation · Authentic Examples · Practice Exercises

Lesson progressNot started

Duration

~33 min

Exercises

Level

Upper Intermediate

Overview

Form and use passive infinitive structures — to be done, to have been done.

Forms

Presentto be + past participle: to be done, to be seen
Perfectto have been + past participle: to have been built
Modalmust / should + be + past participle: must be checked
ExampleThe form needs to be signed by Friday.

When to Use

After modal verbs: The rules must be followed.
After verbs like want/expect/need: The contract needs to be reviewed.
After adjectives: It is important to be heard.
Perfect passive infinitive: She seems to have been promoted.

Common Mistakes

❌ The letter needs to sign → ✅ needs to be signed
❌ It was expected to complete by Monday → ✅ to be completed
❌ She seems to be promoted last year → ✅ to have been promoted (past reference)

When to use

Instructions

All forms must be completed and returned.

Requirements

The report needs to be submitted by noon.

Expectations

The project was expected to be finished last week.

Formal writing

The building appears to have been damaged recently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this lesson on active and passive voice cover?

Form and use passive infinitive structures — to be done, to have been done.

Which CEFR level is this lesson designed for?

This lesson is designed for Upper Intermediate (B2) learners and forms part of the Active and Passive Voice section on Grammartier.

What is the best approach for studying this grammar topic?

Start with the definition, then study the examples carefully to understand how the pattern works in context. Practise identifying the structure in authentic sentences before producing your own — this recognition-first approach builds a strong foundation for accurate, confident use.