Overview
The passive infinitive uses 'to be + past participle'. It follows modal verbs (It must be done), adjectives (It is important to be heard), and certain verbs (She wants to be promoted). The perfect passive infinitive (to have been done) refers to past passive meaning.
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.