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split infinitive
noun
- an expression in which there is a word or phrase, especially an adverb or adverbial phrase, between to and its accompanying verb form in an infinitive, as in to readily understand.
split infinitive
noun
- (in English grammar) an infinitive used with another word between to (the infinitive marker) and the verb itself, as in I want to really finish it this time
split infinitive
- An infinitive is the “to” form of a verb , as in “to play.” A split infinitive is a phrase in which to is separated from the verb. The sentence “I decided to quickly and directly go home” contains a split infinitive. Some people consider it poor style, or even incorrect style, to split an infinitive.
Usage
Grammar Note
Word History and Origins
Origin of split infinitive1
Example Sentences
The NI Civil Service did remove the split infinitive of "to boldly go", replacing it with a more grammatically correct version.
The app and browser extension works across programs and platforms, pointing out your split infinitives in emails, word processors, websites, or on social media.
Besides, the judge added, “I am confident that my former clerk did not play a substantial role in writing this brief. If he had, there would be no fewer than four split infinitives.”
However, now that most people, including language experts, are relaxed about split infinitives, that changes.
Even today, I have felt the urge to run that red light, or to boisterously split infinitives.
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