Gerund vs. Split Infinitive

Attribute	Gerund	Split Infinitive
Definition	A verb form ending in -ing that functions as a noun	An infinitive verb form that has a word or words placed between "to" and the base verb
Structure	Verb + -ing	To + word(s) + base verb
Usage	Used as a noun in a sentence	Can be used for emphasis or to create a specific effect
Examples	Running is good exercise.	To boldly go where no man has gone before.

Introduction

Gerunds and split infinitives are two common grammatical constructs in the English language that are often confused or misused. Understanding the differences between these two forms can help writers and speakers communicate more effectively and accurately. In this article, we will explore the attributes of gerunds and split infinitives, highlighting their unique characteristics and providing examples to illustrate their usage.

Gerunds

Gerunds are verb forms that function as nouns in a sentence. They are created by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb. Gerunds can be used as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "Swimming is my favorite hobby," the word "swimming" is a gerund that serves as the subject of the sentence. Gerunds can also be used after prepositions, such as in the sentence "I enjoy reading books."

• Gerunds function as nouns in a sentence.
• They are created by adding "-ing" to the base form of a verb.
• Gerunds can be used as subjects, objects, or complements.
• They can also follow prepositions.

Split Infinitives

A split infinitive occurs when an adverb or other word is placed between "to" and the base form of a verb in an infinitive phrase. This construction is often considered controversial in English grammar, as some purists argue that split infinitives should be avoided. However, split infinitives are commonly used in everyday speech and writing to add emphasis or clarity to a sentence. For example, in the sentence "To boldly go where no man has gone before," the adverb "boldly" splits the infinitive "to go."

• Split infinitives occur when an adverb is placed between "to" and the base form of a verb.
• They are considered controversial in English grammar.
• Split infinitives are used to add emphasis or clarity to a sentence.
• They are commonly used in everyday speech and writing.

Comparison

While gerunds and split infinitives are both important grammatical constructs in English, they serve different functions in a sentence. Gerunds act as nouns, performing roles such as subjects, objects, or complements. Split infinitives, on the other hand, involve the placement of an adverb between "to" and the base form of a verb in an infinitive phrase. Despite the controversy surrounding split infinitives, they are widely used in informal and formal contexts to convey meaning effectively.

• Gerunds function as nouns in a sentence.
• Split infinitives involve the placement of an adverb between "to" and the base form of a verb.
• Gerunds can serve as subjects, objects, or complements.
• Split infinitives are used to add emphasis or clarity to a sentence.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences between gerunds and split infinitives:

• Gerund:Swimming is good exercise.
• Split Infinitive: She decidedto quickly finish her homework.
• Gerund: I enjoyreading books.
• Split Infinitive: He promisedto carefully consider the proposal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gerunds and split infinitives are distinct grammatical constructs that serve different purposes in English language usage. Gerunds function as nouns, while split infinitives involve the placement of an adverb between "to" and the base form of a verb. Understanding the attributes of gerunds and split infinitives can help writers and speakers communicate more effectively and accurately. By using these constructs correctly, individuals can enhance the clarity and impact of their writing and speech.