In French, expressions of emotion, desire, or fear usually trigger the subjunctive mood (e.g., Je suis content qu'il parte — "I am happy that he is leaving").
However, if both clauses share the same subject (e.g., "I am happy to leave"), you cannot use que + the subjunctive. Instead, use an infinitive.
Adjectives of Emotion
For most adjectives expressing emotion—like ravi (delighted) or soulagé (relieved)—connect the adjective to the infinitive using de.
| The backpacker is delighted to plan his trip. | Le routard est ravi de planifier son voyage. |
| I am relieved to find the hostel after the hike. | Je suis soulagé de trouver l'auberge après la randonnée. |
Expressions with Avoir
This rule also applies to fixed expressions like avoir envie (to want) and avoir peur (to be afraid). Add the infinitive directly after de.
| This young backpacker wants to do a solo trek. | Ce jeune routard a envie de faire un périple solitaire. |
| However, the backpacker is afraid of forgetting his notebook. | Cependant, le routard a peur d'oublier son carnet. |
Reflexive Pronouns with Infinitives
When using a reflexive infinitive like se débrouiller (to get by), the reflexive pronoun must still match the subject, even though the verb isn't conjugated.
| I am proud to get by during this solo trip. | Je suis fier de me débrouiller pendant ce voyage solitaire. |
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