What is the difference between these two statements:
A new version of Java is ready to install.
A new version of Java is ready to be installed.
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In what Java is trying to tell you, there's no difference at all.– user85526Aug 5, 2014 at 0:44
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1Notice that it's not "*to be install". You hafta add -ed as well as be. That's because it's a Passive infinitive. And, since ready can take either an active infinitive with Tough-Movement or a passive infinitive with Equi. They both mean the same thing.– John LawlerAug 5, 2014 at 1:09
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Yep that completely makes sense John. How about the meaning of "to be verb+ing" - For example what is the difference between: 1. He is the worst person to organize this. 2. He is the worst person to be organizing this? do you think both are the same?– NareshAug 5, 2014 at 20:12
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1 Answer
In this particular case, there's no practical difference. Either the subject (the Java setup tool) and object (the Java runtime) of the verb install could be called "a new version of Java", so either is fine.
Here's another example where it makes more difference:
- The man is ready to climb.
- The man is ready to be climbed.
In the first sentence, the man is has prepared himself to climb something (a wall perhaps, or maybe a tree). In the second sentence, the man is prepared for something (perhaps a small child) to climb onto him.
There's a third, more ambiguous statement which could cover both possibilities:
- The man is ready for climbing.
- A new version of Java is ready for installation.
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In the first sentence, the man is has prepared himself...Isis hasa typo?– pavi2410Nov 9, 2019 at 16:21