Download Finite and Non-Finite Verbs

Finite and Non-Finite Verbs
Finite Verbs
• A finite verb is a form of a verb that has a
subject (expressed or implied) and can
function as the root of an independent clause;
an independent clause can, in turn, stand
alone as a complete sentence.
• A sentence does not make sense without a
finite verb.
• A finite verb gives meaning to a sentence.
Finite verbs must agree with the
number and person of its subject.
• Example:
I love food.
The “I” agrees with the word “love.”
Kevin loves food.
The word “Kevin” agrees with the word
“loves.”
• If the tense of the sentence changes, then the
form of the verb also changes. Such a verb is a
finite verb.
Example:
• He works at the photo shop. (Simple present
tense)
• He worked at the photo shop. (Simple past
tense)
Non Finite Verbs
• A non-finite verb (sometimes called a verbal)
is any of several verb forms that are not finite
verbs; that is, they cannot serve as the root of
an independent clause.
Non-finite verbs are not bound by
tense, person or number of the
subject.
Finite
Non-finite
• Richie hates working.
• My Friends hated working.
Finite
Non-finite
A sentence will make sense without
the non-finite verb.
• Example:
We must go shopping now.
We must go now.
Three types of non-finite
1. Infinitive: to + verb
• E.g. John is going to wait outside.
2. Participle verb: does the work of both verb
and adjective- verbal adjective.
• E.g.. Look at the burning candles.
3. Gerund: acts as a verb and noun- verbal noun.
E.g. Painting is my hobby.
The finite verbs are in bold in the
following sentences, and the non-finite
verbs are underlined:
• Verbs appear in almost all sentences.
• This sentence is illustrating finite and nonfinite verbs.
• The dog will have to be trained well.
• Tom promises to try to do the work.
Tense
Finite or Non-finite?
David plays the piano
Present
Finite
My sister spoke French on
holiday
Past
Finite
It took courage to continue NONE -- the verb has the
after the accident
infinitive form
Non-finite
Leaving home can be very
traumatic
NONE -- the verb has the ing form
Non-finite
Leave immediately when
you are asked to do so
NONE -- the verb has the ed form
Non-finite