What are Finite Verbs, Examples and Rules
It is necessary to use a sentence for communicating in any language and English also comes in the group. To make a sentence requires a subject and verb for expressing the complete meaning. Verbs are divided into two categories mainly which are finite and non-finite verbs based on the behaviours within a sentence. In this article we will discuss both finite and non-finite verbs with al rules and examples. So, students are advised to follow the entire article to get detail knowledge about using verbs.
Finite verb is referred to the main verbs which reflects the primary action done by the subject depending on a particular context. Finite verbs function main verbs of a single sentence in simple form. Besides that it can be part of a verb phrase and dependant clause separately. In that case, finite verbs can stand alone and make sense of the sentence along with it. We use finite verbs for showing specific tense along with the person and number of the subject. Finite verbs always complete a sentence with a direct object or indirect object, else no object at all. These verbs can be used in any tense from past, present and future based upon the context and meaning of sentences.
Example
She sings songs nicely.
He speaks English fluently.
I was going to market then.
We will reach there soon.
From the above description students will clear their basic concepts about finite verb. But they require detail information about all rules and conditions for using finite verbs correctly. We have provided complete explanation of al rules with examples below:
1.) Finite verbs always function with subjects within a sentence to mention a particular action.
Ex.
Rina works very hard for scoring well.
Rohit plays football in school team.
2.) Finite verbs always follow subject-verb agreement which means singular subject takes singular verb whereas plural subject uses plural verb.
Ex.
They do their work responsibly.
He plays music in party.
3.) Whenever finite verbs are used in a clause it makes sure the clause to be independent from meaning and context.
Ex.
He knows very well that his parents are liberal.
We know it that he is a hard working person.
4.) Finite verbs will be used accurately to be suitable for the action takes place by the subject.
Ex.
Jane swims very fast in pool.
The manager planned very well about the next project.
What are Non – Finite Verbs, Examples and Rules
Non-finite verbs do not play the role of main verb in a sentence for which it do not mention tense and number of verbs. Non-finite verbs are multifunctional in use which can be applied as nouns, participle adjective and son on. This non-finite verb can be categorised in three main groups which are participle, gerund and infinitive. These three parts of non-finite verbs have sub-parts too which are used with certain rules in a sentence depending on the contexts.
i) Participle:
When verb+ ing is used as adjective to add more information about the subject within a sentence then it is called participle. It is used to refer an action in progress within a sentence. When there is participle that sentence can be divided into complex sentence. So, the best part of identifying participle in to make a simple sentence into complex form. If it can be made into complex from simple then participle is present there.
Participle has been categorised in three types which are present participle, past participle and perfect participle.
a) Present participle:
When the subjects of two sentences are same but verbs are different then present participle will be used for making a simple sentence. From two verbs which action has occurred first participle will made of that verb.
Ex.
He saw me. He went away.
Seeing me he went away.
b) Past participle:
To use perfect tense and passive meaning past participle is used in a sentence where verb 3rd form will be used.
Ex.
A burnt car was seen by viewers of the accident.
He is more interested that his sister.
c) Perfect participle:
When the subject and verb of two sentences are same then perfect participle will be used for making simple sentence. Participle will made of the verb whose action occurred first within the sentence.
Ex.
The soldiers were defeated in the battle field. They fled away in fear.
Having been defeated in the battlefield, the soldiers fled away.
ii) Gerund:
When verb+ ing is used as the subject, object, complement of verb, object of a preposition in a sentence then it is called gerund. If a noun or pronoun is used before any gerund then it must be in possessive case.
Ex.
Swimming is a heathy form of exercise.
She left the place without anyone’s informing.
iii) Infinitive:
When to+ verb 1st form is used as subject, object, complement of a verb, object of a preposition, objective compliment etc. then it is called infinitive. Some infinitive can be in passive forms also for belonging to the context. Otherwise progressive infinitive and perfect infinitive are also used according to the subject and context of a sentence.
Ex.
To tell the truth is an honest view for a person.
He wanted to be treated as a special guest.
I am excited to be left for our next trip.
It is always pleasure to be spending time with you.
FAQs on Finite and non-finite verbs:
1.) What is the reason of learning finite and non-finite verbs individually?
Answer. Both finite verbs and non-finite verbs are important parts of English language which have different perspectives to use in a single sentence. So, students should learn all forms of verbs for using them correctly and becoming efficient in learning verb.
2.) From where students will get idea about finite and non-finite verbs both?
Answer. Students should definitely follow this article where detail information regarding finite verb and non-finite verbs are given with complete explanation. Students will find this useful after following the article completely.