Here, the adverb, boldly, splits the infinitive “to go.” This is acceptable here because this is a pop culture reference. In this case, the saying is more important than the grammatical structure.Įxample: toboldly go where no man has gone before Sometimes, splitting infinitives is acceptable because it pertains to a common phrase. Typically, splitting infinitives is a stylistic choice that experienced writers are free to use because they understand the rules of the language. Novice writers or students new to the English language should shy away from splitting infinitives. However, this rule is more a guideline than anything else. Generally speaking, English grammar rules suggest that splitting infinitives is not the best way to write or speak.

Jeremiah studied for years to learn Spanish well.Īre split infinitives wrong? Splitting infinitives means that there is a word or words between the infinitive form of the verb.

When an infinitive phrase concludes the main clause, it likely does not require additional punctuation.

The best way for Jeremiah to learn Spanish well was to study for years.

When an infinitive phrase interrupts the main clause it likely does not require additional punctuation.

To learn Spanish well, Jeremiah studied for years.

When an infinitive phrase introduces the main clause, it should be followed by a comma.

In this example, the infinitive phrase functions as an adverb because it answers WHY she made cookies.ĭifferent uses of an infinitive phrase require different punctuation.She made cookies to offer an olive branch.In this example, the infinitive phrase functions as an adverb because it answers WHY Jason wants to be an anthropology professor.

Jason wants to be an anthropology professor to share his passion with others.

What is an infinitive