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A colleague of mine consistently uses the infinitive, “to include,†instead of “including†to introduce lists. A typical construction might go like this: “You must seek out other sources of funding to include government grants, venture capital, and bank loans.â€
I always correct these constructions, for example, “You must seek out other sources of funding, including government grants, venture capital, and bank loans.â€
My colleague has asked for an explanation of why the use of the infinitive is incorrect in the first instance above. So I have two questions:
Is the first example above incorrect (as I believe it is)?
Could someone please help me explain why it is wrong and why “including†is correct?
I know the infinitive would be fine in this instance: “You must expand your sources of funding to include government grants, venture capital, and bank loans.â€
Thanks!
I have heard and seen "to include" used in that way. While I join you in using "including" in most circumstances, I would probably prefer "to include" in some circumstances if I were to give it enough thought. If the context is intent, "to include" sounds more accurate to me. For example: "We will construct a document to include options, cost estimates, time lines, and recommendations." But: "We constructed a document including ... ." Personally, "including" sounds fine to me in both contexts. But be warned that you might hear me say "There's salt and pepper on the table." so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
I am no grammarian, but I too think that your colleague's use of the infinitive is incorrect in that example. Using to include implies a logical connection between the initial subject and what comes after to include, while using including implies a list, which is the intention in this case. Examples:
They must be in your immediate family to include them in your medical plan. (no list, just a logical connection)
You wouldn't say, "They must be in your immediate family to include your spouse and children." By using to include your colleague is making the same mistake as in this sentence, though it is much more obvious here.
You can add other people to your medical plan, including your spouse and children. (a list)
Now maybe a grammarian will give you a good technical reason why your colleague is incorrect (or correct!).
Martha Barnette
Grant Barrett
Grant Barrett
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