The verb help is unique in English because it can be followed by either a bare infinitive (verb without to) or a to-infinitive (verb with to). Both forms are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on context, formality, and sometimes personal preference. Let’s explore the differences and when to use each.
The Basics of “Help” with Infinitives
The verb help means to assist or make something easier for someone. It can be structured in the following ways:
- Help + Bare Infinitive (Base Verb)
Example: She helped me finish the project. - Help + To-Infinitive
Example: She helped me to finish the project.
Both sentences convey the same meaning and are correct.
When to Use the Bare Infinitive
The bare infinitive is often used in informal English and in cases where brevity or simplicity is preferred.
Examples:
- He helped her carry the groceries.
- They helped us clean the room.
- Can you help me solve this puzzle?
Key Points:
- Bare infinitives are commonly used in spoken English.
- They create a direct, straightforward tone.
When to Use the To-Infinitive
The to-infinitive is more commonly used in formal English or when the sentence needs to sound more polished.
Examples:
- He helped her to carry the groceries.
- They helped us to clean the room.
- Can you help me to solve this puzzle?
Key Points:
- To-infinitives are often used in writing or formal speech.
- They can add an element of clarity or emphasis.
Is There a Meaning Difference?
No, the meaning remains the same regardless of whether you use the bare infinitive or the to-infinitive. Both forms indicate that one person is assisting another to complete an action.
For instance:
- She helped him build the house.
- She helped him to build the house.
Both sentences express the same idea.
Help + Object + Infinitive
Whether you use the bare or to-infinitive, help is commonly followed by an object (the person being helped).
Examples:
- I helped my brother fix his car. (bare infinitive)
- I helped my brother to fix his car. (to-infinitive)
If no object is mentioned, only the infinitive follows:
- She helped organize the event.
- She helped to organize the event.
Common Mistakes
- Using the wrong form of the verb:
- Incorrect: She helped me finishing the project.
- Correct: She helped me finish the project.
- Omitting “help” incorrectly:
- Incorrect: She me to finish the project.
- Correct: She helped me to finish the project.
Examples in Different Tenses
Affirmative:
- They will help us complete the task. (bare)
- They will help us to complete the task. (to)
Negative:
- He didn’t help me solve the problem. (bare)
- He didn’t help me to solve the problem. (to)
Questions:
- Did she help you pack your things? (bare)
- Did she help you to pack your things? (to)
Help + Bare Infinitive or To-Infinitive?
Both help + bare infinitive and help + to-infinitive are correct. The bare infinitive is preferred in informal or casual settings, while the to-infinitive is often used in formal contexts. There’s no difference in meaning between the two forms, so feel free to choose the one that suits your tone and style.
