In linguistics, a non-finite clause is a subordinate clause whose verb is non-finite; for example, many languages can form non-finite clauses from infinitives. Like any subordinate clause, a non-finite clause serves a grammatical role — commonly that of a noun, adjective, or adverb — in a greater clause that contains it.

Example

• Finite clause: The fact that they are with us in this time of crisis is evidence of their friendship.
• Non-finite clause: Their being with us in this time of crisis is evidence of their friendship.

See also

• Clause
• Gerund
• Gerundive
• Infinitive
• Participle
• Supine
• Verbal noun