Finite Verbs
A finite verb is a verb that shows:
- tense (past, present, future),
- person (I, you, he, they),
- and number (singular or plural).
A finite verb can work as the main verb of a sentence because it gives complete grammatical information.
Examples of Finite Verbs
- She writes every day.
- They played football yesterday.
- I am studying now.
In these examples:
- writes = present tense, singular subject (she)
- played = past tense
- am studying = present continuous tense
Analysis
Finite verbs change form depending on time and subject:
- He runs.
- They run.
The verb changes from runs to run because the subject changes.
Non-Finite Verbs
A non-finite verb does not show tense or agreement with the subject directly. Non-finite verbs cannot usually stand alone as the main verb in a sentence.
There are three common types of non-finite verbs:
- Infinitives → to eat, to study
- Gerunds → eating, studying
- Participles → eaten, running
Examples of Non-Finite Verbs
- She wants to travel.
- Swimming is good exercise.
- Broken windows were everywhere.
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