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Finite and Non Finite Verbs

The document explains the distinction between finite and non-finite verbs in English grammar. Finite verbs change according to tense, person, and number, while non-finite verbs do not and include forms like infinitives, gerunds, and participles. It also provides examples and practice exercises to identify these verbs.

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4 views

Finite and Non Finite Verbs

The document explains the distinction between finite and non-finite verbs in English grammar. Finite verbs change according to tense, person, and number, while non-finite verbs do not and include forms like infinitives, gerunds, and participles. It also provides examples and practice exercises to identify these verbs.

Uploaded by

sakibwnp
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Finite and Non-Finite Verbs

1. Introduction to Finite and Non-Finite Verbs

In English grammar, verbs can be categorized into finite and non-finite forms. Understanding the

differences between these forms is essential for constructing grammatically accurate sentences.

2. Characteristics of Finite Verbs

Finite verbs are verbs that change according to the tense, person, and number. They form the main

verb of a sentence or clause and show the action or state of the subject. Finite verbs are essential

for completing a thought in a sentence.

- **Tense**: Finite verbs change form to indicate past, present, or future.

- **Subject Agreement**: Finite verbs agree with the subject in terms of number (singular/plural) and

person.

Examples:

- 'She **runs** every morning.' (Present tense, agrees with singular subject)

- 'They **were eating** dinner.' (Past tense, agrees with plural subject)

3. Characteristics of Non-Finite Verbs

Non-finite verbs do not change according to tense, person, or number. They cannot stand alone as

the main verb of a clause and are often used as complements, modifiers, or in forming verb phrases.

Non-finite verbs include infinitives, gerunds, and participles.

- **Infinitives**: The base form of a verb, usually preceded by 'to' (e.g., to run, to eat).

- **Gerunds**: The '-ing' form of a verb that functions as a noun (e.g., running, eating).

- **Participles**: The '-ing' form (present participle) or the '-ed/en' form (past participle) that functions

as an adjective.

Examples:
- 'He likes **to swim**.' (Infinitive)

- '**Running** is good exercise.' (Gerund)

- 'The **broken** vase was expensive.' (Past participle)

4. Comparison of Finite and Non-Finite Verbs

Here's a quick comparison between finite and non-finite verbs:

- **Finite Verbs**:

- Show tense (past, present, future)

- Agree with the subject in person and number

- Act as the main verb in a sentence

- **Non-Finite Verbs**:

- Do not show tense or subject agreement

- Cannot be the main verb by themselves

- Include infinitives, gerunds, and participles

5. Detailed Examples and Explanations

Consider the following sentences with both finite and non-finite verbs:

a) 'She **plans** to **travel** next month.'

- Finite Verb: plans (indicates present tense)

- Non-Finite Verb: to travel (infinitive form, no tense or agreement)

b) 'We **are going** to the park to **relax**.'

- Finite Verb: are going (present progressive tense, agrees with subject 'we')

- Non-Finite Verb: to relax (infinitive form, no tense or agreement)

c) 'Watching the sunset **relaxes** him.'


- Finite Verb: relaxes (present tense)

- Non-Finite Verb: Watching (gerund acting as a noun)

6. Practice Exercises with Answer Key

Identify the finite and non-finite verbs in each sentence:

a) 'They decided to leave early.'

b) 'Reading books is his favorite hobby.'

c) 'She was happy to win the prize.'

Answer Key:

- a) Finite Verb: decided (past tense); Non-Finite Verb: to leave (infinitive)

- b) Finite Verb: is (present tense); Non-Finite Verb: Reading (gerund acting as noun)

- c) Finite Verb: was (past tense); Non-Finite Verb: to win (infinitive)

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