Definition

Referring to a form of a verb that does not show tense and cannot function as the main verb in a sentence.

Example

In the sentence 'I want to eat', 'to eat' is a nonfinite verb.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of nonfinite verbs in grammar?

Yeah, they sound a bit complicated, don’t they?

I think they’re interesting because they can express ideas without being limited.

True! It’s amazing how language can be so nonfinite in its expression.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonfinite → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "finite" (from Latin "finitus", meaning limited or bounded). The word "nonfinite" refers to something that is not limited or does not have a fixed boundary, often used in grammatical contexts to describe verbs that do not show tense or subject.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') and 'limited' ('finite') to remember that 'nonfinite' refers to something that is not limited, especially in grammar.

Visually Confused Words