Non-finite Clauses and Infinitives

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to non-finite clauses and infinitives, focusing on distinctions, definitions, and grammatical functions.

Non-finite clause

A clause that does not show tense and typically contains an infinitive or participle.

To-infinitive clause

A clause that begins with 'to' followed by the base form of a verb, indicating purpose or intention.

Bare infinitive

The base form of a verb without 'to', often used after certain verbs or modals.

Gerund

A verb form ending in '-ing' that functions as a noun.

Participial phrase

A phrase that begins with a participle and modifies a noun or pronoun.

Infinitive vs. Gerund

Infinitives often express intent while gerunds express ongoing actions or states.

Ambiguity in interpretation

The quality of being open to more than one interpretation when using infinitive clauses.

Modal sense of infinitives

Interpretation of a to-infinitive as expressing obligation or necessity.

Subject in to-clause

The subject of an infinitive clause, often indicated by the preposition 'for'.

Extraposition

The process of changing the structure of a sentence to place emphasis on a different element.

Pseudocleft sentences

Sentences that divide a statement into a clause and a subject complement, emphasizing the subject.

Bare infinitive as object complement

The use of a bare infinitive after verbs like 'make' or 'let' to complete the meaning.

Infinitive or -ing distinction

The choice between using an infinitive form or gerund depending on the verb and context.

Nominal to-infinitive clause

An infinitive clause that acts as a noun, expressing propositions or actual facts.

Adjectival complement

A phrase that provides additional information about a noun, typically following an adjective.

Defining vs. non-defining clauses

Defining clauses specify which noun is being referred to, while non-defining clauses provide extra information.