infiniivi

Infiniivi is a fictional linguistic concept used in thought experiments and in some constructed languages to denote a special non-finite verb form. It is intended to capture a notion of unbounded or general actions without tying them to a specific subject, tense, or aspect. The term blends the idea of an infinitive with a more generalized non-finite form, sometimes described as an infinitive with added modal or aspectual flexibility.

Origin and scope: The concept arose in online discussions of non-finite verb forms and has appeared in writings on conlangs. It is not widely attested in natural languages, and definitions vary across sources. In practice, Infiniivi is treated as a theoretical tool to explore how non-finite clauses could function beyond standard infinitives.

Morphology and syntax: In proposed frameworks, Infiniivi is a non-finite form that does not assign subject or finite tense. It may appear in subordinate clauses, complement clauses, or as a nominalized form. Some variants treat Infiniivi as capable of carrying mood or evidential information via affixes or particles, while others keep it neutral. The form is typically not inflected for person or number.

Usage: Infiniivi is used to discuss general statements about actions, to introduce actions as universal or hypothetical, or to connect multiple clauses in a non-finite sequence. It is often described as one option among several non-finite forms in theoretical discussions.

Relation to other forms: It contrasts with ordinary infinitives, gerunds, and participles by its proposed broad, unbounded semantics and flexible morphosyntax. In conlang practice, Infiniivi can be implemented with specific affixes or particles to control definiteness, modality, or aspect.

See also: Infinitive, Non-finite verb, Conlang, Grammatical mood.