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 adverbial clause (or adverbial verb phrase) when they function as adverb. Note that gerund clause can never function as an adverb.
Examples of non-finite adverbial clause (underlined) have been categorized under participle and infinitive clause, with each further divided into different types of adverbial clause. Note that the adverbial clauses below are non-finite, that is they don’t have both subject and finite verb.
Participle clause
Adverb clause of comparison
She danced gracefully as if performing on a grand stage.
The cat watched intently as though stalking its prey.
She looked at the painting as if moved by its beauty.
He spoke softly as though embarrassed by his mistake.
He completed the task as requested.
Adverb clause of concession
Although not knowing the full story, he gave a thoughtful response.
Even though experiencing technical difficulties, the team completed the project successfully.
Experiencing technical difficulties, the team nonetheless completed the project successfully. [Subordinator even though has been dropped, but then conjunctive adverb nonetheless has been introduced.]
While not expecting a quick solution, he continued to work on the problem diligently.
Though excited about the new project, she felt anxious about the tight deadlines.
Even though puzzled by the results, the researchers continued their study.
Adverb clause of time
He started the project after gaining approval from the team.
Since adopting a new schedule, he has been more productive.
Until disappointed by the project’s outcome, he stayed enthusiastic.
When confirmed by the client, he felt relieved.
Adverb clause of condition
If given more time, they will complete the project.
Unless treated promptly, the infection could spread.
Without practicing regularly, mastering the instrument will be challenging.
Adverb clause of contingency
When(ever) preparing for an exam, she prefers to study in a quiet room.
When(ever) tired, she drinks a cup of coffee.
Adverb clause of reason
Wanting to upgrade her outdated equipment, she bought a new laptop.
Feeling unwell, he decided to stay home from work.
Impressed by the performance, the critics wrote favorable reviews.
Infinitive clause
Adverb clause of purpose
She left early to catch the train.
She spoke softly so as to avoid waking the baby.
She saved money in order to travel next summer.
Adverb clause of preference [Bare infinitive]
She would bake a cake sooner than buy one from the store.
Rather than rush into a decision, they would prefer to wait.
Adverb clause of exception
She wouldn’t consider the proposal but for it to include a significant equity stake in the company.
Adverb clause of condition
She must be exceptionally thoughtless to ignore their needs. [She must be exceptionally thoughtless if she ignored their needs.]
The coach was overly accommodating to let you join the team so late.
Adverb clause of result
They returned from vacation to find their garden overgrown with weeds.
They walked into the room to discover the furniture rearranged.
Adverb clause of comparison
He acted as if to impress the judges with his performance.
Adverb clause of reason
He was relieved to hear the good news.
Learn about the other two non-finite clause groups:
