Which sentences contain split infinitives? Check all that apply.
Split infinitives have long been a topic of debate among grammarians and language enthusiasts. While some argue that they are grammatically incorrect, others believe they are acceptable in certain contexts. In this article, we will explore the concept of split infinitives and provide examples of sentences that contain them, along with explanations of whether they are considered grammatically correct or not.
A split infinitive occurs when the infinitive form of a verb is separated by another word. For instance, in the sentence “To quickly go to the store,” the word “quickly” is positioned between “to” and “go.” This arrangement has caused much controversy, as traditional grammar rules suggest that the adverb should come before the “to” in an infinitive phrase.
However, not all grammarians agree with this rule. Some argue that split infinitives are acceptable and can be used for emphasis or to create a more natural flow in a sentence. To determine which sentences contain split infinitives and whether they are grammatically correct, let’s examine a few examples:
1. “I decided to carefully examine the evidence.”
– This sentence contains a split infinitive, as “carefully” is positioned between “to” and “examine.” Some grammar rules allow for this arrangement, while others do not.
2. “She plans to eventually visit the museum.”
– Here, “eventually” is a split infinitive. The sentence is considered grammatically correct by some, while others may argue against it.
3. “To help him improve his skills, he enrolled in a special class.”
– In this sentence, “to help him improve his skills” is a split infinitive. Some grammar experts argue that the adverb “special” could be placed before “to,” but the sentence is still grammatically acceptable.
4. “I tried to immediately leave the room.”
– This sentence contains a split infinitive, as “immediately” is placed between “to” and “leave.” Some grammar rules permit this arrangement, while others do not.
In conclusion, determining which sentences contain split infinitives and whether they are grammatically correct can be a matter of personal preference and the specific grammar rules being followed. While some argue that split infinitives are always incorrect, others believe they can be acceptable in certain contexts. As language evolves, it’s essential to consider the purpose and context of a sentence when deciding whether a split infinitive is appropriate.
