Supinumformen

Supinumformen, often referred to as supines, are a class of non-finite verb forms found in several Indo-European languages, notably Latin and in older Germanic varieties. They are distinct from the finite verb forms and from other non-finite forms such as the infinitive and the participle. In languages that preserve a Supinum category, these forms are typically invariable for person and number and are not used to denote tense or voice. They appear in specific syntactic environments rather than as freely conjugated verbs.

In Latin, the supine exists in two neuter forms and is mainly used to express purpose or result in particular constructions, often in combination with verbs of motion or with certain adjectives and nouns. Its use is separate from ordinary infinitives and participles and it does not function as a finite verb form. In historical Germanic languages—such as Old High German or Old Norse—supine or supine-like forms appear in grammatical descriptions and shed light on the development of non-finite verb usage, but they are not productive in modern standard German.

In contemporary German grammar, the supine category is largely obsolete for productive use. Modern German relies on the infinitive (often with zu), the participle, and periphrastic constructions to express non-finite verb meanings. The term is therefore mainly of interest in historical linguistics, comparative work, and the study of Latin or classical languages.

See also: supine, supinum (linguistics), non-finite verb forms.