A finite verb changes its form when the number or person of the subject changes. Study the examples given below.

• He runs fast.

Here the subject is the third person singular pronoun he. Hence, the verb run becomes runs.

• The boys run fast.

Here the subject is the plural noun the boys. Hence, the verb does not take -s.

• They ran fast.

This sentence is in the simple past tense. Hence, the verb run becomes ran.

• You run fast.
• I run fast.
• She runs fast.

As you can see, when the number (singular/plural) or person (first person/second person/third person) of the subject changes, the verb also changes its form. Such verbs are called finite verbs.

Non-finite verbs remain the same in all tenses. They do not change their form when the number or person of the subject changes.

• She wants to earn a lot of money.
• I want to earn a lot of money.
• People want to earn a lot of money.
• My brother wants to earn a lot of money.
• He wanted to earn a lot of money.

In the sentences given above, the verb want is finite whereas the verb to earn is non-finite.

Underline the finite and non-finite verbs in the following sentences.

1. He enjoys reading a lot.

2. I went there to inspect the place.

3. I don’t want to leave now.

4. It takes some effort to win the trust of a cat.

5. I am going to return this to the shop.

6. The passengers rushed to board the train.

7. I am busy cooking now.

8. It took me an hour to finish the job.

9. We have decided to launch a new campaign.

10. Don’t forget to ask him about his work.

Answers

Worksheet 2

Identify the finite and non-finite verbs in the following sentences.

1. I want to talk to the manager.

2. My mother encouraged me to apply for that job.

3. They stopped us from entering their home.

4. She didn’t allow me to go.

5. I have bought something for us to eat.

6. The teacher asked us to learn the poem by heart.

7. The guards advised us to stay away from the cliff.

8. Mother suggested changing the toothbrush.

9. They refused to let us in.

10. I want to ask you a question.

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