Catenative verbs are verbs which are followed directly by another verb, in the bare infinitive, to + infinitive or V+ing form. Catenative literally means "chaining". Some examples :
a) Catenative verb followed by bare infinitive
All modal verbs fall into this category :
He can speak three languages.
You should leave before lunchtime
Lexical verbs following this pattern are rare but include help :
They helped clear up the kitchen
b) Catenative verb followed by to + infinitive
We decided to wait.
He expected to win.
We agreed to lower the price.
I want to see you about something
c) Catenative verb followed by V + ing
She loves reading.
Have you finished eating?
I'd suggest waiting for a while.
Some verbs can be used in more than one of these patterns with no change of meaning - eg help and start
They helped clear up the kitchen.
They helped to clear up the kitchen
It started raining at about two
It started to rain at about two