infinitive
UK: ɪnˈfɪnɪtɪv | US: ɪnˈfɪnɪtɪv
n. (grammar) the basic form of a verb, without inflection, typically preceded by "to" (e.g., "to run").
adj. (grammar) relating to or constituting the infinitive form of a verb.
infinitive = in<not> + fin<end> + itive<adjective suffix>
- in<not>: From Latin "in-" (negative prefix), meaning "not" or "without."
- fin<end>: From Latin "finis," meaning "end" or "limit."
- itive<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, derived from Latin "-itivus," indicating a relationship or tendency.
Etymology Origin:
The word "infinitive" originates from Late Latin "infinitivus," meaning "unlimited" or "indefinite." This reflects the grammatical concept of the infinitive as a verb form that is not bound by tense, number, or person—essentially "without limits" in its grammatical function. The morphemes "in-" (not) and "fin" (end) combine to emphasize this lack of constraint, while "-itive" adapts the term into an adjective form.
In English, the infinitive form of "go" is "to go."
She tried to explain the use of the infinitive in Spanish grammar.
The sentence "I want to sleep" includes an infinitive verb.
Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence.
Avoid splitting infinitives in formal writing (e.g., "to boldly go").