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Infinitive

By Gerald Erichsen, About.com

Definition: The most basic form of a verb. In Spanish, infinitives always end in -ar, -er, or -ir. In English, the term is usually used to refer to the "to + verb" form of the verb such as "to run" or "to eat," although according to some authorities the infinitives are "run" and "eat." The infinitive by itself does not indicate tense or who is performing the action of the verb. In both English and Spanish, the infinitive can often function as a noun.
Also Known As: Infinitivo in Spanish
Examples: In Spanish: 1. hablar. 2. viajar.

Corresponding examples in English: 1. "to speak." 2. "to travel."

Gerald Erichsen
Guide since 1998

Gerald Erichsen
Spanish Language Guide

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