infinitive

An infinitive is a verbal which in English always begins with the preposition “to”.   video  An Infinitive with all its modifiers is an infinitive phrase.  Infinitives can function adjectivally, adverbially, or substantively.

 

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Greek:

An infinitive in Greek can also function adjectivally, adverbially, or substantively.  “In many cases the use of the Greek infinitive is so much like that of the infinitive in English as to call for no comment.” §298   See BBG chapter 32 or this video.

The infinitive is identified by its own unique set of endings:

Articular infinitives are often paired with prepositions to show purpose, time, or result (BBG 32.15).

1. An articular infinitive with εἰς or πρός shows purpose.
2. An articular infinitive with ὥστε shows result.
3. An articular infinitive with πρό, ἐν, or μετά shows time.
4. An articular infinitive with διά shows cause.

 

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Hebrew:

In Hebrew, an infinitive construct is by far the more common of the two kinds of infinitive (infinitive absolutes never have a prefix).  Infinitive constructs can be used as adverbs and as substantives.  Start here.

For the uses and meaning of the infinitive construct, study this (jump to page 13).

An infinitive absolute is the less common of the two.   more or video  Infinitive absolutes will never have a prefix.

 

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Infinitive Construct

(not found in the Hofal or Pual)

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Infinitive Absolute