Non-finite Verbs

What are Non-finite Verbs?

Non-finite verbs are verb forms that do not show tense and cannot function alone as the main verb in a sentence. They always require a finite verb (which shows tense and agrees with the subject) to complete the meaning of the predicate. Common types of non-finite verbs include infinitives, participles (present and past), and gerunds.

Take the word “eating”.

When used without a helping verb, it sounds like this:

Example:

I eating burger.

This is grammatically incorrect and sounds awkward.

That is why a helping verb such as “am” is required.

Now the sentence becomes:

I am eating burger.

This is grammatically correct.

This illustrates how non-finite verbs cannot stand alone; they need a finite verb to complete the idea.

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But what about the sentence “I am eating burger.” Is there a finite verb here?

If you said yes, you are correct.

Look closely:

In the sentence, there are two verbs:

• am — an auxiliary (helping) verb
• eating — a present participle (non-finite verb)

Which one is the finite verb? It is verb 1 (am).

Why?

Imagine someone asks:

“Are you eating a burger?”
“What are you eating?”
“What are you doing?”

The short answer can be: “I am.” or “I am eating a burger.”

Notice that “am” can stand by itself in response and makes sense.

Therefore, am is a finite verb because it shows tense and agrees with the subject.

The verb “eating” is non-finite; it cannot stand alone and needs am to make sense.

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More examples:

Candace needs to rest.
Verbs: 1) needs (finite), 2) to rest (infinitive, non-finite)

Claire has taken a leave.
Verbs: 1) has (finite), 2) taken (past participle, non-finite)

No one tries to understand me.
Verbs: 1) tries (finite), 2) to understand (infinitive, non-finite)

He will go to the party.
Verbs: 1) will (finite), 2) go (base form, non-finite)