What Is Split Infinitive? Definition, Examples & Tips
What is split infinitive? In plain language, a split infinitive occurs when an adverb or other word is placed between "to" and the base form of a verb (the infinitive). The classic example is "to boldly go," where "boldly" divides the infinitive marker "to" and the verb "go."
This construction focuses on word order: the infinitive is "to + verb," and splitting it inserts another element between those two parts. The rule that forbids splitting infinitives is largely prescriptive and stems from attempts to model English grammar on Latin, where splitting an infinitive is impossible.
Examples
1. Classic example: "To boldly go where no one has gone before." This splits the infinitive "to go" with the adverb "boldly." It is memorable and widely accepted for emphasis and rhythm.
2. Neutral example: "She wanted to completely understand the process." Split: "to completely understand." Unsplitted alternatives: "She wanted completely to understand the process" (awkward) or "She wanted to understand the process completely" (clearer).
3. Awkward split: "He tried to quickly fix the problem." Better: "He tried to fix the problem quickly" or "He quickly tried to fix the problem." Choose the version that preserves meaning and natural rhythm.
Common Errors
- Overcorrection: Some writers force clumsy alternatives to avoid splitting infinitives, producing awkward phrasing that obscures meaning. Avoid changing a clear sentence just to follow an outdated rule.
- Misplaced adverb: Moving the adverb too far from the verb may change emphasis or meaning. For example, "She intended to always help" vs. "She always intended to help" — the subject of "always" shifts.
- Ambiguity: Incorrect repositioning can create ambiguity. Rewriting to avoid a split infinitive can accidentally assign the adverb to a different verb or clause.
Actionable Tips to Improve Your Writing
- Prioritize clarity and natural rhythm over strict rules. If a split infinitive makes a sentence clearer or sounds better, use it.
- Try alternative placements: move the adverb after the verb ("to understand completely") or before the auxiliary ("quickly tried to fix"). Choose the option that preserves meaning and flow.
- Read sentences aloud. Natural speech often reveals whether a split infinitive improves emphasis or creates awkwardness.
- Use writing tools for a quick check. Rephrasely's paraphraser and AI writer can suggest smoother rewrites, while the plagiarism checker and AI detector help verify originality and tone. Try composing alternatives in /composer and run them through /plagiarism-checker or /ai-detector for confidence.
Related Terms
- Infinitive: The base form of a verb usually preceded by "to" (e.g., "to run," "to be"). Infinitives express actions or states in an unconjugated form.
- Adverb: A word that modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs (e.g., "quickly," "completely"). Adverbs are often the elements that split infinitives.
- Gerund: A verb form ending in -ing used as a noun (e.g., "running is fun"). Gerunds offer an alternative structure when infinitive phrasing feels awkward.
- Prescriptive vs. descriptive grammar: Prescriptive rules tell you how you should write; descriptive grammar describes how people actually use language. The split infinitive prohibition is mainly prescriptive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a split infinitive grammatically incorrect?
No. Split infinitives are not inherently incorrect. Modern usage and many style guides accept them when they improve clarity or emphasis. The prohibition is a prescriptive holdover from attempts to align English with Latin grammar.
When should I avoid splitting an infinitive?
Avoid it when splitting creates awkward phrasing, changes meaning, or breaks sentence rhythm. If moving the adverb produces a clearer or more natural sentence, prefer the unsplit version.
Can writing tools help fix split infinitives?
Yes. Tools like Rephrasely's paraphraser and AI writer can propose alternative phrasings, while the /composer page helps draft rewrites. After revising, check originality with /plagiarism-checker and content style with /ai-detector to ensure your final text reads naturally and is appropriate for your audience.