8.2 Non-finite clauses: Infinitives, participles, and gerunds

Non-finite clauses are a crucial part of English grammar, lacking tense or mood but serving important functions. These clauses, which include infinitives, participles, and gerunds, can act as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in sentences.

Understanding non-finite clauses helps create more complex and varied sentences. They allow for concise expression of ideas, adding depth to writing without the need for multiple independent clauses or conjunctions.

Understanding Non-finite Clauses

Non-finite clauses in English grammar

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• Non-finite clauses lack a finite verb expressing tense or mood and cannot stand alone as complete sentences (He wants to go home)
• Contain a verb in its non-finite form functioning as noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence (Singing in the shower, she felt relaxed)
• Three main types: infinitive, participle, and gerund clauses serve different grammatical purposes (To win the race, Running fast, Winning the race)

Types of non-finite clauses

• Infinitives use base form of verb preceded by "to" functioning as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs (to eat, to sleep)
• Participles include present (verb + -ing) and past (typically verb + -ed) forms acting as adjectives or in verb phrases (singing bird, broken vase)
• Gerunds formed by verb + -ing function as nouns in sentences (Swimming is great exercise)

Formation of non-finite clauses

• Infinitives formed with "to" + base verb or as bare infinitive without "to" (to dance, help)
• Present participles add -ing to verb base (running, singing)
• Past participles add -ed to regular verbs, irregular verbs vary (played, sung)
• Gerunds consistently formed by adding -ing to verb base (reading, writing)

Usage of non-finite clauses

• Infinitives express purpose, function as subjects or objects (She wants to travel)
• Participles modify nouns, form perfect and progressive tenses, construct passive voice (The sleeping cat, I have been working)
• Gerunds act as subjects, objects, complements, follow prepositions (Jogging is healthy, She enjoys painting)
• Combine multiple non-finite clauses for complex sentences while maintaining clarity (To succeed in life, working hard and staying focused are essential)