Finite and Nonfinite Verbs

VERBS
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Verbs which have the past or the present form are called FINITE verbs. Verbs in any other form (infinitive, -ing, or -ed) are called NONFINITE verbs. This means that verbs with tense are finite, and verbs without tense are nonfinite. The distinction between finite and nonfinite verbs is a very important one in grammar, since it affects how verbs behave in sentences. Here are some examples of each type:  
 
 
 
Tense
Finite or Nonfinite?
David plays the piano Present Finite
My sister spoke French on holiday Past Finite
It took courage to continue after the accident NONE -- the verb has the infinitive form Nonfinite
Leaving home can be very traumatic NONE -- the verb has the -ing form Nonfinite
Leave immediately when you are asked to do so NONE -- the verb has the -ed form Nonfinite

 
 
 
In each of the following sentences, indicate whether the highlighted verb is finite or nonfinite.

 
1. Paul runs to work every day Finite  
Nonfinite 
2. They have run away together  Finite  
Nonfinite 
3. Tim gave Paul a menacing look  Finite  
Nonfinite 
4. Katie was watching TV when the phone rang  Finite  
Nonfinite
5. We found him smoking behind the shed Finite  
Nonfinite
 

 
 
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