Definition

Adjective: 1. Relating to or formed with the infinitive: Pertaining to the grammatical form of a verb that is not limited by person or number, typically preceded by "to" in English (e.g., to go, to see). It describes a word, phrase, or clause that functions as or contains an infinitive.

Usage

The word "infinitival" is a specialized grammatical term. It is used to describe linguistic elements that are connected to the infinitive form of a verb. - It can modify nouns, such as "clause," "phrase," or "construction." - It is primarily used in academic, linguistic, or formal descriptive contexts.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The sentence contains an infinitival clause acting as the direct object.
  • In the phrase "to leave quietly," the word "to leave" is an infinitival verb phrase.
  • Linguists analyze the infinitival marker "to" in English grammar.

Advanced Usage

• Infinitival Complement: A grammatical structure where an infinitive phrase completes the meaning of a verb.
  • Example: In "She wants to succeed," the phrase "to succeed" is an infinitival complement.
• Infinitival Relative Clause: A relative clause that uses an infinitive verb, often implying purpose or necessity.
  • Example: "She brought a book to read on the train."

Variants and Related Words

• Infinitive (n): The base form of the verb, often with "to," that is the subject of the adjective "infinitival."
  • Example: The word "to run" is an infinitive.
• Infinitivally (adv): In a manner relating to an infinitive. (This form is rare but grammatically possible.)
  • Example: The verb is used infinitivally in that construction.

Synonyms

• Non-finite: Describing a verb form (like the infinitive, participle, or gerund) that is not marked for tense, person, or number.
• Uninflected: (In a general linguistic sense) Not changing form to show tense, person, etc.

Adjective

1. relating to or formed with the infinitive
   • infinitival clause