Basically, there are two types of clauses finite and non finite Clause. Further, they are classified as depending and independent. In case of non finite clause, it is classified as infinitive, Participles and gerund. Explanation of finite and non-finite clauses is essential to ensure correct and comfortable usages.
In english grammar, there are two types of clauses. One is finite which is limited by tense and have separate subject. On the other hand, other is Non-finite clause which is neither limited by tense nor have separate subject but subject of the main clause. For details, let’s see the explanation of finite and non finite clause.
Meaning of Non finite clause
Non finite clause is introduced by either infinitive, gerund or Participles. You can read the Difference between Gerund infinitive and participle in this blog. So, simply, non finite clause or infinite clause is introduced by three ways. We are going to see them one by one in this article.
For example, “The truck crashed while offloading construction materials”. (While offloading construction materials)
Previously, I have written extensively on the finite clauses. Here, I’m going to explain the types and usages of non finite clause.
Understanding explanation of finite and non finite clause
Following are some rules of formation of non finite clause. Take a look at the points.
This clause is also a subordinating clause.
It is introduced by either infinitive or participle
It isn’t limited by tense
It doesn’t have separate subject but subject of main clause.
Types of Non-infinite clauses:
There are three forms of these clauses;
- Non-finite clause with subordinating conjunctions.
- Relative Non-finite clauses.
- Non-finite clause with participle (ing & ed), and + to infinitive.
1. Non-finite clause with subordinating conjunctions
These clauses are introduced after some of the subordinating conjunctions such as while, although etc.
Examples of non finite clause
Harry surprised while receiving negative feedback from his friend. (while receiving negative feedback from his friend)
The new training schedule, if adopted by coach, might cause inconvenience for many players. (If adopted by coach)
The truck crashed while offloading construction materials. (While offloading construction materials)
2. Non-finite clause with participle, and + to infinitive.
In this type of clause is placed immediately after verbs with the subject of main clause. Have a careful look at the following examples.
They can’t eat standing beside the road.
She hates to dance in the gathering.
He never likes to get up early everyday.
Frustrated by the teacher’s attitude, John left the classroom early.
3. Relative Non-finite clause
It is also called defining infinitive clause. It is used to describe person or thing in the more detailed manner. In this clause, subject for both Infinitive and main clause remains the same.
Examples of relative non finite clause.
The player having yellow T-shirt is former champion.
The girl living next flat is an air hostess.
The guide helping tourists suddenly resigned from job.
The scientists unknown to us are the real heroes of our society.
The landform having lofty look is block mountain.
Last words on explanation of finite and non finite clauses
Both of these clauses are subordinating type. Finite clause is limited by noun person and tense along having seperate subject. But in case of infinite, it is not limited so. Therefore by using these clauses one can manke various types of sentences to enhance grammatical skills and knowledge.
This is all about the types, meaning and examples of Non finite clauses introduced by infinitive, gerund, Participles. Hope this short piece of writing on explanation of Non-Finite and finite clause would help you in your preparation.