Parts Of Speech Questions Long
A split infinitive is a grammatical construction in which an adverb or adverbial phrase is placed between the particle "to" and the base form of a verb in the infinitive form. For example, the split infinitive in the sentence "To boldly go where no one has gone before" occurs between the word "to" and the verb "go."
The controversy surrounding split infinitives arises from traditional prescriptive grammar rules that discourage their use. According to these rules, the infinitive form of a verb should remain intact and not be separated by any word or phrase. This belief stems from the influence of Latin grammar on English, where infinitives are single words and cannot be split.
The controversy surrounding split infinitives is primarily based on aesthetic and stylistic grounds. Critics argue that splitting the infinitive can disrupt the flow and clarity of a sentence, making it sound awkward or clumsy. They claim that adhering to the traditional rule of not splitting infinitives leads to more elegant and precise writing.
However, many modern linguists and grammarians argue that the prohibition against split infinitives is arbitrary and unnecessary. They contend that splitting infinitives can enhance clarity and emphasize certain words or phrases, allowing for more flexibility and creativity in sentence construction. They argue that English is a living language that evolves over time, and the strict adherence to outdated rules can hinder effective communication.
In contemporary usage, split infinitives are widely accepted and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Many renowned writers and publications, including reputable newspapers and magazines, regularly employ split infinitives without any negative impact on the clarity or effectiveness of their writing.
In conclusion, a split infinitive is a grammatical construction where an adverb or adverbial phrase is placed between "to" and the base form of a verb in the infinitive form. The controversy surrounding split infinitives stems from traditional prescriptive grammar rules that discourage their use. However, modern linguists argue that the prohibition against split infinitives is unnecessary and that their usage can enhance clarity and flexibility in sentence construction.