Finite Verbs and Non-finite Verbs in English

Last updated on July 31, 2024 by Grammargeek

This reference covers finite verbs and non-finite verbs. You will learn what a finite verb is and how it differs from a non-finite verb.

The reference includes example sentences to help clarify the concepts. This will make it easier for you to understand and identify these types of verbs in English.

Finite Verbs and Non-finite Verbs
Finite Verbs and Non-finite Verbs – Created by 7ESL

Finite Verbs and Non-finite Verbs | Finite Verbs

A finite verb is controlled by the number of the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb is singular. If the subject is plural, the verb is plural.

Examples:

  • The girl runs slowly. (Subject is singular)
  • The girls run slowly. (Subject is plural)

A finite verb is controlled by the person.

Examples:

  • I visit my grandparents at least once a month. (I – First Person)
  • She visits her grandparents at least once a month. (She – Third Person)

A finite verb is controlled by the tense. It can be in the past, present or future tense.

Examples:

  • Mary studies Spanish. (Present Tense)
  • Mary studied Spanish. (Past Tense)

Finite Verbs and Non-finite Verbs | Non-finite Verbs

A non-finite verb is not controlled by the number, person, and tense of the subject.

Examples:

  • I enjoy shopping for clothes and shoes.
  • You enjoy shopping for clothes and shoes.
  • They enjoy shopping for clothes and shoes.

The verb shopping remains unchanged whatever the person, number, and tense of the subject.

Types of Non-finite Verbs:

  1. Infinitives:
    • She can’t go out. (Zero Infinitive)
    • I want to go to the cinema. (To-Infinitive)
  2. Participles:
  3. Gerunds:
    • I like going to the cinema. (Gerund)
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