What is another word for infinitive?

Pronunciation: [ɪnfˈɪnɪtˌɪv] (IPA)

An infinitive is a type of verb that usually appears with the word "to" before it, for example, "to dance" or "to sing". However, there are other ways to refer to this type of verb. One possible synonym for "infinitive" is "base form". This term also refers to the simple form of the verb, without any added endings or changes. Another synonym is "non-finite verb". This term covers several different types of verbs that can be used without an explicit subject or tense, including infinitives, gerunds, and participles. Finally, some people may use the term "unconjugated verb" to describe the infinitive form, as it is not altered to match the subject or tense of the sentence.

What are the hypernyms for Infinitive?

A hypernym is a word with a broad meaning that encompasses more specific words called hyponyms.

What are the hyponyms for Infinitive?

Hyponyms are more specific words categorized under a broader term, known as a hypernym.
  • hyponyms for infinitive (as nouns)

    • communication
      verb.

Usage examples for Infinitive

The schoolmaster had only to repair what we call a "split infinitive."
"The French in the Heart of America"
John Finley
When the perfect infinitive?
"Practical Grammar and Composition"
Thomas Wood
This error is called the "split infinitive."
"Practical Grammar and Composition"
Thomas Wood

Famous quotes with Infinitive

  • Spirituality is indeed the master key of the Indian mind; the sense of the infinitive is native to it.
    Sri Aurobindo
  • When I split an infinitive, God damn it, I split it so it will stay split.
    Raymond Chandler
  • Would you convey my compliments to the purist who reads your proofs and tell him or her that I write in a sort of broken-down patois which is something like the way a Swiss waiter talks, and that when I split an infinitive, God damn it, I split it so it will stay split, and when I interrupt the velvety smoothness of my more or less literate syntax with a few sudden words of bar-room vernacular, that is done with the eyes wide open and the mind relaxed but attentive.
    Raymond Chandler
  • By the way, would you convey my compliments to the purist who reads your proofs and tell him or her that I write in a sort of broken-down patois which is something like the way a Swiss-waiter talks, and that when I split an infinitive, God damn it, I split it so it will remain split, and when I interrupt the velvety smoothness of my more or less literate syntax with a few sudden words of barroom vernacular, this is done with the eyes wide open and the mind relaxed and attentive. The method may not be perfect, but it is all I have.
    Raymond Chandler
  • Remember to never split an infinitive. The passive voice should never be used. Do not put statements in the negative form. Verbs have to agree with their subjects. Proofread carefully to see if you any words out. If you reread your work, you can find on rereading a great deal of repetition can be by rereading and editing. A writer must not shift your point of view. And don't start a sentence with a conjunction. (Remember, too, a preposition is a terrible word to end a sentence with.) Don't overuse exclamation marks!! Place pronouns as close as possible, especially in long sentences, as of 10 or more words, to their antecedents. If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times, resist hyperbole. Also, avoid awkward or affected alliteration. Writing carefully, dangling participles must be avoided. If any word is improper at the end of a sentence, a linking verb is. Take the bull by the hand and avoid mixing metaphors. Avoid trendy locutions that sound flaky. Everyone should be careful to use a singular pronoun with singular nouns in their writing. Always pick on the correct idiom. The adverb always follows the verb. Last but not least, avoid cliches like the plague; seek viable alternatives.
    William Safire

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