Pattern 21 has two verbs together in the middle of each sentence, linked by "to". In the Model Sentence above, the verb "likes" is followed by "to sleep". When you read English and see two verbs linked with "to", try to remember the first verb. That verb should always be followed by a verb in the "infinitive" form - that is a verb with "to". The most common verbs followed by "to" (followed by the "infinitive") are "want", "hope", "try", "ask", "expect" and "care". Notice that these verbs are all involved, in some way, with the future. (The verb "like" can be used with "to" or with "ing", as you will see with Pattern 22!)

Pronunciation Practice - Repeat each sentence out loud!

1. We like to read books.
2. They want to eat soup.
3. She hopes to teach English.
4. He tries to improve his writing.
5. I stopped to eat dinner.

Conversation Practice - Ask these questions to your friends!

1. What do you like to read?
2. What do you want to eat for dinner tonight?
3. Where do you hope to work in the future?
4. What are you trying to improve in your life?
5. Do you sometimes stop on your way home from work? Why?