There are three non-finite clauses:
- Infinitive clause (also known as infinitive phrase)
- -ing participle clause and -ed participle clause (also known as present participial phrase and past participial phrase, respectively)
- Gerund clause (also known as gerund phrase)
Of the three non-finite clauses, infinitive clause and participle clause are called non-finite adjectival clause (or adjectival verb phrase) when they function as adjective. Note that gerund clause can never function as an adjective. Examples (non-finite adjectival clause has been underlined):
Infinitive clause or infinitive phrase
I need a place to stay for the night.
There are many tasks to complete by the end of the week.
I have an appointment to attend this afternoon.
We found a tutorial to help us understand the software.
They are searching for a venue to host the wedding reception.
-ing participle clause or present participial phrase
The glowing embers in the fire provided a warm light.
He ignored the annoying noise coming from the street.
The book lying on the table belongs to me.
The students taking the exam were fully focused.
-ed participle clause or past participial phrase
The battered suitcase was covered in travel stickers.
The car parked in front of the house is mine.
The broken window let in a cold draft.
The letter written in haste contained several errors.
Learn about the other two non-finite clause groups:
