infinitivisk

Infinitivisk is a term used in some linguistic discussions to describe features or forms that relate to the infinitive form of verbs. In practice, its exact meaning varies by author, and it is not a universally standardized category in the major grammars. Broadly, infinitivisk is used to refer to phenomena involving non-finite verb forms that bear a special relation to the infinitive, such as constructions headed by or resembling the infinitive, or adjectives and phrases that are described as infinitive-like in meaning or function.

Etymology and scope: The word combines infinitiv (infinitive) with the suffix -isk, a common pattern in European languages for forming adjectives meaning “pertaining to.” The label is more common in descriptive grammars and typological works than in prescriptive or universally adopted frameworks. Because the term is not fixed across languages, its scope can include different non-finite behaviors attributed to infinitives in various linguistic traditions.

Possible uses and interpretations: In some accounts, infinitivisk describes non-finite clauses introduced by an infinitive, or forms that function in a way analogous to adjectives derived from an infinitive. It may also be employed to denote infinitive-based morphology or to mark infinitive-related semantic or syntactic roles in particular languages. The precise criteria for classifying something as infinitivisk depend on the theoretical framework and the language being described.

Relationship to related concepts: Infinitivisk is related to the broader ideas of the infinitive, non-finite clauses, infinitival constructions, and infinitive-derived morphology. It is not universally recognized as a separate grammatical category, and speakers of different traditions may disagree on its applicability or definition.

See also: infinitive, non-finite clause, infinitival, infinitive morphology.