How to Use "To V" or "Not To V"

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The word “to” is often confusing in English. It can be used as part of a modal expression, infinitive or as a preposition.

Note the usage of “to” in the following sentences.

 To V

      I used to live in Utah.

      I am supposed to go.

      I hope to see you.

           

To V ing

      I am used to living in Utah.

      I am opposed to going.

      I look forward to seeing you.

Modal expressions are always followed by the base form of the verb.

      ought to

      have to

      have got to

      used to

     

be to

      be able to

      be supposed to

      be going to

Similar expressions are followed by infinitives (to + V)

      need to V

      want to V

      hope to V

      happen to V

      mean to V

      tend to V

      care to V

      wish to V

      would like to V

     

be allowed to V

      be inclined to V

      be reluctant to V

      be willing to V

      be happy to V

      be afraid to V

      be required to V

      be delighted to V

      be compelled to V

Many prepositional combinations using “to” are followed by gerunds.

      look forward to V ing

      resort to V ing

      submit to V ing

      confess to V ing

      give in to V ing

      admit to V ing

      with regards to V ing

      be accustomed to V ing

      be addicted to V ing

      be opposed to V ing

      be limited to V ing

      be dedicated to V ing

      be commited to V ing

      be used to V ing