Non-finite verbs can be a tricky concept to grasp, especially for those learning English as a second language. However, they are an important part of the language and can be found in many different forms of writing and speech. In this article, we will define what non-finite verbs are, explore the different types of non-finite verbs, discuss the rules for using them correctly, and provide plenty of examples to help you understand them better.
What Is a Non-Finite Verb?
A non-finite verb is a type of verb that does not have a subject or show tense. Non-finite verbs are used to add additional information to a sentence, and they do not function as the main verb. Instead, they can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. There are three types of non-finite verbs: infinitives, gerunds, and participles.
Types of Non-Finite Verbs:
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Infinitives:
An infinitive is a verb form that is used with the word “to.” Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.
For example:
- To swim is my favorite hobby. (Infinitive as a subject)
- I have a lot of work to do. (Infinitive as an adjective)
- She came to visit me. (Infinitive as an adverb)
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Gerunds:
A gerund is a verb form that ends in “-ing” and functions as a noun in a sentence.
For example:
- Swimming is a great way to stay in shape. (Gerund as the subject)
- She enjoys reading books. (Gerund as the object of the verb “enjoys”)
- I have a fear of flying. (Gerund as the object of the preposition “of”)
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Participles:
A participle is a verb form that ends in “-ed” or “-ing” and functions as an adjective in a sentence.
For example:
- The broken vase needs to be replaced. (Participle as an adjective modifying “vase”)
- The students, bored with the lecture, began to doodle. (Participle as an adjective modifying “students”)
Rules for Using Non-Finite Verbs:
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Infinitives:
- An infinitive can be used with or without “to” depending on the context of the sentence. For example: “I want to eat” versus “I can eat.”
- An infinitive can be used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence.
- An infinitive should not be split by other words or phrases.
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Gerunds:
- A gerund can be used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence.
- A gerund can be preceded by a possessive adjective, such as “my,” “your,” or “his.”
- A gerund should not be split by other words or phrases.
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Participles:
- A participle can be used to modify a noun or pronoun in a sentence.
- A participle can be used in the past, present, or future tense.
Examples of Non-Finite Verbs:
Here are some examples of non-finite verbs in sentences:
- Infinitive: She plans to travel the world.
- Gerund: Running is good exercise.
- Participle: The crying baby needs to be comforted.
FAQs:
- Q. Can a non-finite verb be the main verb in a sentence? A. non-finite verbs do not show tense and cannot be the main verb in a sentence. They are used to provide additional information.
- Q. Can a gerund be used as the object of a preposition? A. Yes, a gerund can be used as the object of a preposition. For example: “He is good at playing the guitar.”
- Q. Is it okay to split an infinitive? A. While it was once considered grammatically incorrect to split an infinitive, it is now generally accepted as long as it does not affect the clarity of the sentence.
- Q. Can a participle be used as a verb? A. No, a participle cannot be used as a verb. It functions as an adjective in a sentence.
Conclusion:
Non-finite verbs can add depth and complexity to a sentence. They are important to understand for both written and spoken English. Infinitives, gerunds, and participles are the three types of non-finite verbs, each with their own rules for usage. Remember to use non-finite verbs to provide additional information, and make sure to follow the rules for their usage. With practice, using non-finite verbs will become second nature, and your writing and speaking will become more polished and nuanced.