린치핀으로 학습하는 그래머_The Only Way to Be Indispensable Is to Be Different: Understanding To-Infinitives

 No one is a genius all the time. But all of us are genius sometimes. Linchpins are indispensable, the driving force of our future. The only way to be indispensable is to be different. 


1. What Is a To-Infinitive?

A to-infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by "to." It is commonly used to express purpose, intention, or result. In the sentence "The only way to be indispensable is to be different." from Seth Godin’s Linchpin, the phrase "to be indispensable" and "to be different" are examples of to-infinitives.

Common Uses of To-Infinitives:

  1. As the subject of a sentence
    • To do meaningful work is a privilege.
  2. As the complement of a verb
    • His goal is to create something remarkable.
  3. To show purpose or intention
    • He works hard to achieve success.

2. Examples from Linchpin

Seth Godin’s book Linchpin emphasizes the importance of being unique and creating value. Here are some sentences from the book that illustrate to-infinitives:

  • "To create is to take risks."
  • "The easiest thing is to react."
  • "We get to choose what we do next."
  • "To lead is to solve interesting problems."

These examples show how to-infinitives can function as subjects, complements, and expressions of purpose.

3. Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of to-infinitives by completing the following exercises.

Fill in the blanks with the correct to-infinitive form:

  1. The best way __________ (succeed) is to take action.
  2. She strives __________ (make) a difference in the world.
  3. It is essential __________ (embrace) uncertainty.
  4. __________ (create) something valuable requires courage.
  5. His advice is __________ (focus) on meaningful work.

Rewrite the sentences using to-infinitives:

  1. He works hard because he wants to become a leader.
    → He works hard _______________ a leader.
  2. She left early because she wanted to catch the train.
    → She left early _______________  the train.
  3. They practice every day because they want to improve.
    → They practice every day _______________ .