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 gerund clause are called non-finite nominal clause (or nominal verb phrase) when they function as noun. Note that participle clause can never function as a noun. Examples (non-finite nominal clause has been underlined):
Infinitive clause or infinitive phrase
To travel around the world is my dream. [Subject]
I forgot to lock the door. [Direct object]
His goal is to become a doctor. [Subject complement]
We encouraged him to apply for the job. [Object complement]
Their decision, to move to a new city, surprised everyone. [Appositive]
She is happy to help with the arrangements. [Adjective complement]
Gerund clause or gerund phrase
Reading is her favorite hobby. [Subject]
I love swimming in the ocean during summer. [Direct object]
His hobby is collecting rare coins. [Subject complement]
They noticed her writing in her notebook. [Object complement]
His passion, writing poetry, takes up most of his free time. [Appositive]
He is tired of working late every night. [Object of preposition]
Learn about the other two non-finite clause groups:
