Infinitivilauset

Infinitivilauset, or infinitive clauses, are a type of non-finite subordinate clause in Finnish grammar that center on the infinitive form of a verb rather than a finite verb. They function as parts of larger sentences rather than stand-alone statements and can serve as objects, subjects, or adverbial elements within a clause.

In Finnish, infinitive clauses commonly occur in a few core patterns. The basic infinitive form (for example lukea, syödä, ostaa) can act as the object of a main verb, as in haluan lukea (I want to read) or haluan syödä (I want to eat). Another frequent use is to express purpose with the -maan/-mään form, as in Menen kauppaan ostamaan kahvia (I am going to the store to buy coffee). This -maan/-mään form conveys the intention or goal of the action in the main clause.

Infinitive clauses can also function as predicative complements after adjectives or certain impersonal constructions, shaping the overall statement. For example, Se on vaikea tehdä (It is difficult to do) uses an infinitive in a complement position. In practice, the subject of an infinitive clause is usually the same as the subject of the main clause; when a different subject is intended, the relationship is typically indicated through possessive or noun phrases.

Infinitivilauset are common in both spoken and written Finnish, contributing to concise expression of purpose, intention, or action related to the main clause. They can range from short, single infinitives to longer sequences with objects or modifiers, depending on the surrounding context.