31 May, 2007

Finite and Nonfinite Verbs

Verbs which have the past or the present form are called FINITE verbs. Verbs in any other form (infinitive, -ing, or -ed) are called NONFINITE verbs. This means that verbs with tense are finite, and verbs without tense are nonfinite. The distinction between finite and nonfinite verbs is a very important one in grammar, since it affects how verbs behave in sentences. Here are some examples of each type:
Tense
Finite or Nonfinite?
David plays the piano Present Finite
My sister spoke French on holiday Past Finite
It took courage to continue after the accident NONE -- the verb has the infinitive form Nonfinite
Leaving home can be very traumatic NONE -- the verb has the -ing form Nonfinite
Leave immediately when you are asked to do so NONE -- the verb has the -ed form Nonfinite
5 Blogger Tips: Finite and Nonfinite Verbs Verbs which have the past or the present form are called FINITE verbs. Verbs in any other form (infinitive, -ing , or -ed ) are called NONFI...

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