Taaverbimuoto

Taaverbimuoto is a term used in some Finnic-language grammars to denote a non-finite verb form. The precise definition varies between sources, but common to descriptions is that the taaverbimuoto participates in non-finite clauses and does not inflect for person or finite tense. It is often discussed in the context of how verbs contribute to subordinate structures, where finite verbs carry main-tense information and the taaverbimuoto supplies the action stem in a non-finite role. In some approaches, taaverbimuoto is treated as equivalent to an infinitive; in others, as a participial form with specific aspectual or referential properties.

Morphology and syntax: Descriptions generally characterize taaverbimuoto as realized by a verb stem plus a non-finite suffix or set of markers and/or clitic particles; it can appear clause-finally or clause-initially within subordinate clauses and can be used with auxiliary verbs to express tense, modality, or aspect in a non-finite construction.

Relationship to other forms: It is often contrasted with finite verb forms and with other non-finite forms such as gerunds or participles, with debates about whether taaverbimuoto constitutes a single cross-linguistic category or a labeling for several non-finite realizations.

Status and sources: The term is not part of standard Finnic grammars and appears in limited, sometimes speculative works. Because of variation and lack of broad consensus, concrete usage examples are scarce in widely used reference grammars. Further research and primary-source citations are needed for a definitive description.

See also: non-finite verbs, infinitive, participle, Finnish grammar, Finnic languages.