zuclause

Zuclause, or zu-Klausel in German linguistics, denotes a non-finite subordinate clause headed by the infinitive with the particle zu. It functions similarly to English to-infinitive clauses and is widely used to express purpose, intention, or evaluative meaning as part of a larger sentence.

Formation and usage: A zu-clause is formed with zu plus an infinitive, for example zu gehen, zu lernen, zu sehen. Unlike finite dass-clauses, zu-clauses have no marked subject or tense and are typically linked to the main clause by control or by a predicative or modal context. They can occur in several positions: as subject (Zu lernen ist wichtig), as object or complement (Ich hoffe, heute zu bleiben; Es ist möglich, ihn zu kontaktieren), or after adjectives (Es ist schwierig, rechtzeitig zu kommen). They also appear to express purpose, especially in constructions with um: Ich gehe früh, um zu arbeiten.

Subject and control: The subject of a zu-clause is usually the subject of the main clause (subject-control), though the relation can be implicit or unexpressed. This non-finite form allows a concise expression of actions related to the matrix clause without introducing a new finite verb.

Comparison with other structures: Zu-clauses contrast with dass-clauses, which contain a finite verb and assign tense. They also contrast with bare infinitives that follow certain verbs (e.g., sehen, lassen) where no zu is used. In many cases, choice between zu-clauses and alternative structures can subtly affect nuance or emphasis.

Examples illustrate common patterns: "Zu lernen ist wichtig." "Ich hoffe, heute zu bleiben." "Es ist möglich, ihn zu kontaktieren." "Ich habe beschlossen, zu reisen."