How to Revise Sentences and Eliminate Split Infinitives for Better Writing

When it comes to writing, clarity and grammatical accuracy are essential. One common grammatical issue that often arises is the split infinitive. In this article, we will explore the concept of split infinitives and discuss which sentences can be revised to eliminate them. By understanding and avoiding split infinitives, you can improve the quality of your writing and enhance your communication skills. Let's dive in!

I. Understanding Split Infinitives:

Before we delve into revising sentences, let's first understand what split infinitives are. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, typically preceded by the word "to." A split infinitive occurs when an adverb or other word is placed between "to" and the verb, disrupting the infinitive phrase.

Split Infinitives

For example, in the sentence "To boldly go where no one has gone before," the adverb "boldly" splits the infinitive "to go." While split infinitives are generally accepted in modern English, it is advisable to avoid them for the sake of clarity and precision.

II. Identifying Sentences with Split Infinitives:

To eliminate split infinitives, it is crucial to identify the sentences that contain them. Here are a few indicators to help you recognize split infinitives within your writing:

•  Look for sentences with "to" followed by an adverb and a verb. For instance, "He decided to quickly finish his work."
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• Keep an eye out for phrases where the adverb separates the two parts of the infinitive. For example, "She wanted to carefully read the instructions."
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• Pay attention to sentences that seem grammatically awkward or lack smooth flow. Split infinitives can often contribute to such issues.

III. Strategies to Revise and Eliminate Split Infinitives:

Now that we understand what split infinitives are and how to identify them, let's explore effective strategies to revise these sentences and eliminate the split infinitive:

1. Rearrange the sentence structure: One way to revise split infinitives is by reordering the sentence to remove the adverb between "to" and the verb. For example, "He decided to finish his work quickly."

2. Use alternative adverbs: Another approach is to find alternative adverbs that can be placed elsewhere in the sentence without splitting the infinitive. For instance, instead of "She wanted to carefully read the instructions," you could say "She wanted to read the instructions carefully."

3. Modify the verb or use a different construction: Sometimes, it is possible to rephrase the sentence by modifying the verb or using a different construction altogether. For example, "He decided to complete his work quickly" or "She wanted careful reading of the instructions."

Modify the verb

IV. Benefits of Eliminating Split Infinitives:

By revising sentences to eliminate split infinitives, you can enjoy several benefits:

1. Enhanced clarity: Removing split infinitives results in clearer and more precise writing, making it easier for readers to understand your intended meaning.

2. Improved flow: Revising split infinitives often improves the overall flow and rhythm of your sentences, contributing to a more polished writing style.

3. Professionalism and accuracy: Employing proper grammar and syntax, including avoiding split infinitives, enhances the professionalism and accuracy of your writing, leaving a positive impression on your readers.

V. Conclusion:

Mastering the art of writing involves paying attention to grammatical details like split infinitives. By understanding the concept and employing effective revision strategies, you can eliminate split infinitives from your sentences and achieve clearer, more polished writing.

Remember, precision and clarity are vital for effective communication, so strive to eliminate split infinitives and refine your writing skills. Happy writing!