2.315 USAGE NOTE

Many of these nouns are related to verbs or adjectives which are also often followed by 'to'-infinitive clauses. For example, a 'to'-infinitive clause is used after both the verb 'need' and the noun 'need', and after both the adjective 'able' and the related noun 'ability'.

• I need to borrow five thousand dollars.
• ...the need to preserve secrecy about their intentions.
• I may be able to help you.
• ...the ability to read.
• It failed to grow.
• ...our failure to adapt ourselves to modern life.

2.316

Here is a list of nouns which usually or often have a 'to'-infinitive clause after them:

• ability, attempt, bid, chance, compulsion, desire, disinclination, failure, inability, need, opportunity, readiness, reason, refusal, unwillingness, urge, way, willingness